Cinema Novo was a revolutionary film movement in Brazil that broke away from traditional storytelling to confront social injustice, inequality, and political oppression head-on. Its leading directors—Glauber Rocha, Nelson Pereira dos Santos, Joaquim Pedro de Andrade, and Ruy Guerra—pushed the boundaries of cinematic language, using raw imagery and impassioned rhetoric to articulate the struggles of a society in flux. Eryk Rocha’s 2016 documentary Cinema Novo serves as both a tribute and a critical reflection on that transformative era. One of the aspects I truly admired about the film was its personal touch. Eryk brings a unique insider perspective, blending archival footage, intimate interviews, and personal reflections to evoke the spirit and passion of the movement. His reverence for his father’s legacy is palpable, and he does an excellent job of capturing the fervor and idealism that defined Cinema Novo. The documentary promotes the revolutionary ideas of the movement while also challenging viewers to reconsider its impact in a contemporary context. It invites audiences to see how the bold experimentation and political engagement of the 1960s continue to resonate today, making the film both a historical document and an artistic statement. The way it juxtaposes the raw energy of past works with modern-day reflections creates a layered narrative that is both celebratory and introspective. It captures the defiant spirit of a movement that dared to challenge the status quo, while also prompting us to reflect on how art and politics continue to intersect in our modern world.

– Amyy Mubeen