O Samba

Samba is more than just the grand chaotic staging of Rio de Janeiro's Carnaval and frenetic rhythms and dancing. Through the work of the popular samba school Unidos de Vila Isabel and musician Martinho da Vila, O Samba explores the heart and soul of this Brazilian artistic tradition. Director Georges Gachot asserts the deeply lyrical way of life with samba with da Villa as our guide. Augmented with vivid live performances and other musical icons—including Leci Brandão, Ney Matogrosso, Paula Lima, and Martinho's daughter Mart'nalia—this documentary captures the spirit of samba. (Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival)