Black Rio! Black Power!

Soul music, black power and political resistance converge in this spirited document of the transformative force of soul music in 1970s Brazil.

During the years of the Brazilian dictatorship in the 70s, a powerful source of black pride and resistance emerged that swept through the suburbs and favelas of Rio de Janeiro. Black American soul music came to Brazil via the likes of James Brown and Aretha Franklin, galvanising dance halls across Rio. Its uplifting message of resistance, affirmation and justice empowered a generation of young black people coming to the dances for a good time, while igniting a black pride awakening that is still active today. Out of this movement came iconic musicians, DJs and bands that shaped and defined Brazilian music and culture.

Curator's note
Director Emílio Domingos' uplifting film calls back the players and participants of this music happening, who lovingly reminisce and enlighten with their stories of resistance, joy and non-stop partying. Aside from interviewing the luminaries of the scene, the film blends in eye-opening archival footage and images that highlight just how big the movement was and how it brought together people from disparate social backgrounds. Ultimately, Black Rio! Black Power! celebrates the transformative power of the music and its vital role in creating spaces of affirmation and protest.