Directed by: Luis Valdez
Starring: Lou Diamond Phillips, Esai Morales, Rosana De Soto, Elizabeth Peña, Joe Pantoliano, Marshall Crenshaw, Rick Dees, Brian Setzer, Danielle von Zerneck, Stephen Lee
Contributors: Taylor Hackford, Bill Borden, Luis Valdez, Carlos Santana, Miles Goodman, Los Lobos, Adam Greenberg
*La Bamba* (1987), directed by Luis Valdez, tells the inspiring yet tragic story of Ritchie Valens, the Mexican-American teenager who skyrocketed to fame in the 1950s with his iconic rock 'n' roll hits. Lou Diamond Phillips delivers a captivating performance as Valens, chronicling his journey from working in California's fields to sharing the stage with legends like Buddy Holly (Marshall Crenshaw) and The Big Bopper (Stephen Lee). As Valens’ career flourishes, the film explores his struggles with family, fame, and young love, all leading to the fateful 1959 plane crash that took his life at just 17.
This Criterion Collection release features a stunning restored edition, celebrating the enduring legacy of Ritchie Valens with exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and insightful commentary.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Luis Valdez |
| Starring | Lou Diamond Phillips, Esai Morales, Elizabeth Peña, Joe Pantoliano, Marshall Crenshaw, Rick Dees, Brian Setzer |
| Format | Blu-ray / Restored |
| Studio | Criterion Collection |
| Catalogue No | CC3489BDUK |
| Barcode | 5060952890970 |
| Main Language | English |
| Subtitles | Spanish |
| Region | B |
| Release Date | 15 Jan 2024 |
| Originally Issued | 1987 |
| No of Discs | 1 |
| Weight | 98g |
| Dimensions | 135 x 16 x 173 (mm) |
| Genre | Drama |
| BBFC Certification | 15 (Suitable for 15 years and over) |
| Rental/Retail | Retail not for Rental |
| Run Time | 108 minutes |
| Sound | 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio |
| Special Features |
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