A portrayal of the life of one of the most important samba musicians in Brazil, Bahian sambista Oscar da Penha, popularly known as Batatinha (1924 -1997). Through memories of their father, his nine children share their perspectives, as well as interviews with family, friends and musicians, to tell the story of Batatinha’s life, history and work.
Acústico MTV
A short film of lovely poetic, observational elements and interviews with the famed samba singer/songwriter Nelson Antônio da Silva, whose adopted last name ‘Cavaquinho’ refers to the small guitar-like instrument that he played and used to compose his songs.
Discover the captivating origins of an iconic little pickup from the 1960s that was transformed into a 'triozinho' and captured the hearts of countless 'foliões' during Carnaval. Through heartfelt memories, interviews, and breathtaking landscapes, this documentary, directed by Daniel Bittencourt, beautifully reveals how a group of passionate music lovers gave birth to one of Linhares’ most cherished cultural symbols, straight from Vila de Regência.
Short silent documentary on Carnaval at Malmédy, Belgium.
A Raça Síntese de Joãosinho Trinta
The Mangueira slum is the scenario where Tantinho and the old samba composers remember stories about the slums and samba.
Short by Jomard Muniz de Britto
Fulano de Tal
Documentary about Brazilian samba songwriter and singer Paulinho da Viola, one of the most sophisticated musicians of the genre. The film shows his biography, influences, masters and friends, as well his simple and peculiar way of life, with activities like restoring old cars, working with wood, playing billiards.
Where are you, João Gilberto? sets out in the footsteps of German writer Marc Fischer who obsessively searched for the legendary founding father of Bossa Nova and last great musical legend of our time, Brazilian musician João Gilberto, who has not been seen in public for decades. Fischer described his journey in a book, Hobalala, but committed suicide one week before it was published. By taking up Marc Fischer's quest, following his steps one by one, thanks to all the clues he left us, we pursue João Gilberto to understand the history, the very soul and essence of Bossa Nova. But who can tell whether we will meet him or not?
A whimsical blend of live action and animation, "Saludos Amigos" is a colorful kaleidoscope of art, adventure and music set to a toe-tapping samba beat. From high Andes peaks and Argentina's pampas to the sights and sounds of Rio de Janeiro, your international traveling companions are none other than those famous funny friends, Donald Duck and Goofy. They keep things lively as Donald encounters a stubborn llama and "El Gaucho" Goofy tries on the cowboy way of life....South American-style.
The film reveals the creation of poet Dorival Caymmi's musical works with testimonies from researchers, journalists and friends who lived with him and were able to enjoy his wisdom and talent.
Documentary about the kolla people living in North Western Argentina.
Documentary on the life and times of one of the most prominent Brazilian samba composers, Cartola (Angenor de Oliveira).
Follows members of the Zulu Club, New Orleans’ first Black Mardi Gras, as they work to bring the Zulu parade back to the streets for Mardi Gras Day 2022, in the face of a global pandemic, hurricane Ida and the loss of members due to COVID and gun violence.
Carnaval 65
Documentary about Brazilian music circa 1969, with extremely rare scenes, such as the only color footage of Pixinguinha, images of João da Baiana, one of the fathers of Samba, Maria Bethânia rehearsing at Barroco nightclub, Baden Powell playing his acoustic guitar, Paulinho da Viola showing his masterpiece "Coisas do Mundo, Minha Nega", that he had just finished, and Márcia, a singer from São Paulo.
The film discusses the cultural impact of "pichação", a Brazilian form of graffiti, on the streets of São Paulo and its international influence as one of the main cornerstones of Street Art.
Gilberto Gil talks with friends and share his thoughts, influences and reveal his impact on brazilian music and vision of the black people.