Quilombo (1984)

Synopsis (spoilers): In the 17th century, in Brazil, the black slaves who escaped from the farms established free communities in forest areas. The biggest of them was Palmares. Its first great leader was named Ganga Zumba. Later, another man, who had been kidnapped from the quilombo when he was a child and then raised by a priest, escapes again and returns to Palmares to be the successor of Ganga Zumba; he is given the name Zumbi. Ganga Zumba negotiates peace with the white men, and moves with those loyal to him to a new area established by the white men, where they would live in isolation; Zumbi and his followers remain at Palmares.

Appraisal: I disliked its stylistic approach, which mixed action and drama with lots of dancing and partying, apparently going for some exotic appeal; I particularly detested the insertion of songs, and very insipid ones at that. Other than that, the movie has a great story, which is told in a rather static way, yet is given some thrust by the vivaciousness of most of the acting.

Rating: 39