🗓 Sunday 26th October, 2pm start (doors 1.30pm)
📍 Maxilla Social Club (W10 6SW)
Rating: Suitable for ages 10+
Duration: 55 min
Includes a Q&A session with the Festival Curator from Brazil | Following the films, the space will open for a Samba de Roda - with Samba de Raiz UK.
All films in Brazilian Portuguese with English subtitles.
1. Arte Quilombola, o Legado Continua - Quilombola Art, the Legacy Continues
Documentary, 25’ min, 10+, 2025. Directed by Claudia Chávez
A documentary on the importance of ancestral knowledge and quilombola art in shaping Brazilian society - as a tool of resistance and defense of territory, especially when carried forward by visionary leaders such as Mãe Bernadete, ialorixá, activist, and quilombola leader, assassinated in 2023.
One year after her death, the Quilombo Pitanga dos Palmares opens its doors and hearts to hold the Festival she so passionately defended, sharing their story, their relationship to art, and the transformative power it holds.
Rooted in the philosophy of axé, these artistic and spiritual processes give enduring value to her legacy and ensure it lives on.
2. Egbé Orum: Família Espiritual - Egbé Orum: Spiritual Family Documentary, 27’ min, All Ages, 2024. Directed by: Alexandre Silva.
This film follows the journey of Babalawo Rafael Araújo, leader of Asé Lofa Lokan in Cosmópolis (São Paulo). Inspired by the Yoruba concept Egbé Orum, representing collective and spiritual bonds, the documentary traces his story - from his Bahian ancestry through his life across São Paulo state, to his work as a spiritual guide. A narrative of memory, identity, and belonging.
3. Coisa de Preto - Black´s People Thing
Animation, 6’ min, All Ages, 2025. Directed by Pâmela Peregrino.
Coisa de Preto seeks to reclaim and transform the expression’s negative connotations, presenting powerful and affirmative actions that redefine what is “a Black thing.” The film denounces exploitative labor conditions, religious demonization, and the historical and cultural expropriation of Afro-Brazilians, while celebrating the Black men and women who contribute to Brazil’s scientific and intellectual life - affirming their sacred rites and cultural practices.
🥁 After the Screenings
The opening is part of the next edition of Samba de Raiz UK. Following the films, stay with us to celebrate with a Samba de Roda, live music, and feijoada.
Tickets for the Samba de Raiz event are separate and can be purchased here or at the door.