Military dictatorship

Definition

A military dictatorship is a form of government in which the military controls the political authority, often replacing or bypassing civilian leadership. These regimes typically arise during times of political instability or crisis and are characterized by the suspension of democratic processes, curtailment of civil liberties, and a strong emphasis on national security. In relation to Brazilian Cinema Novo, the impact of military dictatorship on film and culture during this period is profound, influencing key figures and themes that emerged in the cinematic landscape.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Brazil's military dictatorship lasted from 1964 to 1985, marked by repression of dissent and widespread human rights violations.
2. Cinema Novo emerged as a response to the oppressive political climate, using film as a medium to critique social injustice and highlight the struggles of marginalized communities.
3. Key figures such as Glauber Rocha became prominent for their artistic contributions that blended politics with innovative cinematic techniques during this period.
4. Filmmakers faced censorship and were often forced to navigate the boundaries set by the regime while still trying to convey their messages through metaphor and allegory.
5. The legacy of military dictatorship has left an indelible mark on Brazilian cinema, shaping narratives and aesthetics that continue to influence contemporary filmmakers.

Review Questions

• How did military dictatorship influence the themes and styles present in Brazilian Cinema Novo?
  • Military dictatorship had a significant influence on Brazilian Cinema Novo by driving filmmakers to respond creatively to oppression and censorship. The constraints imposed by the regime led directors like Glauber Rocha to use innovative storytelling techniques that conveyed deeper political messages. Themes of social justice, resistance, and critique of authority became prevalent as filmmakers sought to reflect the realities of life under a repressive government.
• Discuss the role of censorship during Brazil's military dictatorship and its impact on filmmakers within the Cinema Novo movement.
  • Censorship played a crucial role during Brazil's military dictatorship, severely limiting creative expression for filmmakers within the Cinema Novo movement. Directors were often forced to alter their narratives or face severe penalties, which led many to employ allegory and symbolism as a means of conveying their messages. This censorship not only shaped the films produced during this era but also fostered a culture of resistance among filmmakers who sought to challenge the status quo through their art.
• Evaluate how the historical context of military dictatorship continues to shape contemporary Brazilian cinema today.
  • The historical context of military dictatorship continues to shape contemporary Brazilian cinema through its lasting influence on themes of resistance and social commentary. Many current filmmakers draw from this turbulent past to address ongoing issues related to inequality, governance, and civil rights in Brazil. By reflecting on the legacies of repression and censorship, these filmmakers create works that resonate with audiences today, fostering a critical dialogue about democracy and human rights in a society still grappling with its history.

Related terms

censorship: The suppression of speech, public communication, or other information deemed objectionable by authorities, often seen in military regimes to control narratives.

repression: The act of subduing or restraining a population through force, often seen in military dictatorships to maintain control and suppress dissent.

authoritarianism: A governing system characterized by the concentration of power in a single authority, where individual freedoms are often subordinated to the needs of the state.