Macunaima (1969)

In the verdant heart of the Amazon, a miraculous event unfolds; Macunaíma, a fully grown, indolent anti-hero with a childlike spirit is born to an elderly woman. This ebony-skinned native of Amazonas embarks on a life-altering journey, following the death of his mother, accompanied by his two loyal brothers. Along the way, the trio encounters a mystical fountain, which magically transforms Macunaíma into a Caucasian. Their journey leads them to the pulsating urban jungle of Rio de Janeiro, where fate intertwines Macunaíma's path with Ci, a lethal guerrilla woman. Ci, as fierce as she is enchanting, possesses an alluring amulet made of stone. Despite their contrasting dispositions, the pair falls passionately in love, leading to the birth of a black baby. However, their domestic bliss is abruptly shattered when a bomb, intended for a terrorist attack, detonates, claiming the lives of Ci and their infant child. The cherished amulet disappears in the chaos. In the aftermath, the stone finds its way into the hands of a formidable man, sparking off Macunaíma's relentless quest to reclaim it. He navigates the Big City, learning hard-hitting life lessons, realizing that not every nut serves as food, and that the city's glittering facade conceals a myriad of dangers. After a series of comedic, yet poignant exploits, Macunaíma finds himself drawn back to the untamed beauty of the jungle, his saga coming full circle. This whimsical tale of Macunaíma is a vibrant fusion of miracles, comedy, and tragedy, encapsulating a raw depiction of life's unpredictable twists, the innocence of love, the ruthlessness of loss, and the relentless pursuit of one's destiny. Its potent blend of adventure and humor, interspersed with glimpses of harsh reality, makes it an unforgettable cinematic journey.

Macunaima is a comedy movie featuring Tite de Lemos.

It is possible to buy Macunaima on Kino Now.