As the festival Portuguese Cinema Days in Berlin continues, we focus on the parallel revolutions that unfolded alongside Portugal's political upheaval. The 25 de Abril Revolution opened new possibilities not only for political change but also for social and cultural transformation, both in Portugal and in the newly independent African countries.
Monday, November 18th – Revolution, Revolutions
• "Prazer, Camaradas!" by José Filipe Costa – This film focuses on the arrival of young Europeans in Portugal after the revolution, many of them inspired by the spirit of May 1968. Naturally, there were some surprises—when Portuguese people, coming from half a century of dictatorship in a very conservative society, got together with international idealists, the social and sexual order was bound to get a shake-up! Together, they confronted old norms and redefined intimacy. [trailer]
After the screening, join a conversation with the director and two witnesses personally involved in this transformative period, who will share their experiences and reflect on the political and solidarity efforts of many people at the time.
Before the feature film Prazer, Camaradas!, we will also screen:
• "25
de Abril – Uma Aventura para a Democracia" by Edgar Pêra – This short documentary
shows the hope, excitement, and astonishment that filled the streets of
Portugal in the early days of the 25 de Abril Revolution, as people
celebrated newfound freedoms. [trailer]
Wednesday, November 20th – The Land of our Dreams
• "À Mesa da Unidade Popular" by Isabel Noronha and Camilo de Sousa – In the wake of Mozambique’s independence, many dreamed of a fair and united nation. However, things soon took a different turn. Although the film focuses on the struggles of Mozambique’s people, it helps us understand the realities faced by many nations born from decolonization. [trailer]
Before the feature film À Mesa da Unidade Popular, we will also screen:
• "O Cravo da Liberdade" – An
animated film created by 6th-grade students (ages 11-13) from a school in
northern Portugal. With limited resources but support from some of Portugal's
leading animation filmmakers, the students presented their vision of Portugal's
recent history: dictatorship, revolution, and the key changes that followed. A
heartwarming and insightful film that captures the simplicity and authenticity
of a child's perspective.
@ Kino
Moviemento, Kottbusser Damm 22
All screenings begin at 19:30
Original versions with English subtitles
Ticket price: 8 Euros
For more information and the full schedule, visit: Portuguese Cinema Days
Até já,
Helena Araújo