Matangi / Maya/ M.I.A.

Disclaimer: I was an M.I.A. fan beginning with her first album. I caught a lot of flack from friends who thought they had the story on her, which they didn't. I think her music and lyrics are important, fun, danceable (duh), and yet also a brilliant melange of cultures.IMHO, this film has three tales to tell. First, find out about Matangi/Maya; get straight on who she is and who she isn't. Second, listen to tensions and contrasts in life as a first generation immigrant, especially one leaving a country where it was dangerous to remain. Third, get an introduction to the political complexities of Sri Lanka. If you're here for M.I.A.'s music, know there's some of that, and some of the narrative of her rise in the music world, but I don't think that's the most interesting or powerful story here.

I learned about M.I.A.'s music with Paper Planes, and from there discovered more of her music.Her lyrics and what little that was available on the Internet revealed that she has a clear passionate about a cause that is very near to her -- the tragic events that were happening in Bangladesh. But I was left thirsting for more -- more in terms of the story, more in terms of depth to interviews, more in terms of live performances.This documentary, and the film she captured going back so many years that made it possible, is truly a gem! Artistically, the documentary is so well done. In terms of telling a story, I'm frankly at a loss for words!And Matangi is badass!I would recommend watching it at least a second time!

I remember being in high school in 2002 and hearing Galang and seeing the video. I could relate to the beat there was a Caribbean flair to it, reminded me of a dissected dancehall beats. Flash forward to Paper Plans, then the SuperBowl and now this. I think she has really made a mark not only for Tamil people but for herself. She has such a unique style...its innately hers. She is an icon! M.I.A. and Santigold are the bitches to watch out for.

I've always had a superficial crush on MIA, but sadly didn't really know much about her, or many of the issues/experiences she's always tried to bring to light. This film was very enlightening, inspiring, as well as a plethora of other emotions. I vaguely remember the super bowl "incident" being a big deal, and her receiving a lot of flack and criticism here in the U.S.. Yes it's the biggest tv (live) event of the year etc., but I'm really ashamed of how our media has treated her (before/after). She was constantly dismissed for trying to bring actual issues of consequence to light, and finally given vastly disproportionate attention (super negative) and blowback from something pretty trivial in the grand scheme of things. My admiration and respect is no longer superficial to say the least. The very final scene was poetic, and perfect.

Success eventually brings her to America, and she starts pointing fingers. At that point of the movie I'M OUT. K.M.A.

I watched this with my 15 year old daughter and we BOTH loved it. Beginning to end. I hate when people talk things up. Or talk things down. You are smart enough to judge for yourselves. Give it a go. I was not disappointed. It made my day and prompted me to tell you to watch. I felt this with all of my being. That's right, the women are smarter.....

Don't hesitate, watch/buy/share with your friends now!We need more humans like Maya + less like the Kardashians.

Hands down one of the best musician documentaries I have watched. This is an eye opener and it's not just the simple struggling of the average pop star. I feel like a lot more people should pay attention to M.I.A.

the music of a culture far removed from the western world upbeat and cheerful

Excellent