key term - Bacurau

Definition

Bacurau is a Brazilian film released in 2019 that blends elements of science fiction, horror, and political commentary, focusing on a small town in the Brazilian hinterlands. The story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of the town and its inhabitants, prompting a struggle for survival against external threats while addressing themes of social inequality, government neglect, and community resilience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bacurau was directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho and Juliano Dornelles, who are known for their unique storytelling style and social engagement in cinema.
2. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019, where it received critical acclaim and won the Jury Prize.
3. Bacurau uses genre blending effectively to create a narrative that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, incorporating elements of westerns, horror, and sci-fi.
4. The film serves as a metaphor for Brazil's socio-political climate, reflecting on themes of isolation, resistance, and the power dynamics between urban and rural communities.
5. Bacurau showcases a strong ensemble cast, featuring local actors who contribute to its authenticity and connection to real-life issues faced by marginalized communities.

Review Questions

• How does Bacurau use genre blending to address social issues in Brazil?
  • Bacurau combines elements of horror, sci-fi, and western genres to create a gripping narrative that reflects Brazil's social issues. This blend allows the filmmakers to explore themes like governmental neglect and social inequality while engaging viewers with thrilling content. By using familiar genre tropes, Bacurau effectively critiques the real-life struggles faced by marginalized communities in Brazil.
• Analyze the portrayal of community resilience in Bacurau and its significance within the film's narrative.
  • Community resilience is a central theme in Bacurau, depicted through the inhabitants' united front against external threats. The film highlights how collaboration and solidarity become vital tools for survival when faced with adversity. This portrayal is significant as it emphasizes the strength of community bonds in overcoming challenges, ultimately reflecting on broader societal issues in Brazil.
• Evaluate Bacurau's impact on contemporary Brazilian cinema and its contribution to discussions on social justice.
  • Bacurau has made a notable impact on contemporary Brazilian cinema by pushing boundaries in storytelling while sparking discussions on social justice. Its blend of genres and focus on marginalized voices contribute to a larger movement within Cinema Novo that seeks to address pressing societal issues. By intertwining entertainment with critical commentary, Bacurau encourages viewers to engage with the realities of inequality and inspires further exploration of these themes in future Brazilian films.

Related terms

Cinema Novo: A Brazilian film movement that emerged in the 1960s, known for its critical approach to social issues and innovative storytelling techniques.

Fictionalization: The process of crafting a narrative that combines real events with imaginative elements to convey deeper truths or critique societal conditions.

Social Commentary:

The act of using artistic expression to critique or highlight social issues and injustices, often aiming to provoke thought and inspire change.