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Brazil, once the world's largest slave colony, was a brutal and deadly place for millions of Africans. But many thousands escaped or rebelled, creating their own communities in Brazil's untamed hinterland. Largely unknown to the outside world, today these communities struggle to preserve a rich heritage born of resistance to oppression.
"Quilombo Country" ("Quilombo" is an Angolan word meaning "encampment") ranges from the Northeastern sugar-growing regions to the heart of the Amazon rainforest, discussing issues of political identity, land rights, and racial and socioeconomic discrimination. Included are examples of the material culture that allow the quilombolas to survive in relative isolation, including hunting, fishing, construction and agriculture, and witness rare footage of syncretic Umbanda and Pajelanca ceremonies; Tambor de Crioula, Carimbo and Boi Bumba drum and dance celebrations; and Festivals of the Mast. No other film currently in release addresses these communities and illustrates all of these important Afrobrazilian contributions to Brazilian and world culture.
"Quilombo Country" is narrated by Chuck D, the legendary poet, scholar, media commentator and front man of the iconic hip hop band Public Enemy.
"Quilombo Country"
73 minutes * Digital Video * Portuguese with English subtitles and narration
[all-Portuguese version also available]
www.quilombofilm.com * [email protected]
Official Selection:
