Unfairly labeled as ‘outcast’ or ‘cursed,’ Luiz Melodia was one of Brazil’s greatest artists. Supported by a rich investigation of archival footage, the artist narrates in the first person his childhood in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, how he was discovered by Wally Salomão and Gal Costa, and his radio success until becoming one of the country’s most prominent figures. A beautiful reflection of the cultural relevance of his contribution to the Brazilian scene from the 70s onwards, and the rebellious spirit of a boundless musicality that, fusing samba, blues, soul, bolero, and jazz, confronted the industry with grace and stubbornness.
Documentary Winner of In-edit Brazil 2024
Cast: Luiz Melodia, Gal Costa, Maria Bethânia, Caetano Veloso, Jards Macalé