Is Exu Rei - Abdias do Nascimento Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2017)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2017, Exu Rei - Abdias do Nascimento represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Documentary category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into The African deity that brought in Brazil Together with the blacks, Exu is known as the orixá of communication, the guard of the streets and the human behavior. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "The African deity that brought in Brazil Together with the blacks, Exu is known as the orixá of communication, the guard of the streets and the human behavior. The short film of black culture and its assimilation by Brazilian art. In its subtext, the film honors one of the greatest activists of the black cause - the actor, the poet, the playwright and the politician - Abdias do Nascimento. The positioning of the documentary seeks to incorporate the fighting spirit, expressive and restless of Abdias: present link between characters, images and children of the film."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Abdias Nascimento, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary Documentary. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by Bárbara Vento is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 23 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Exu Rei - Abdias do Nascimento truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 7.8/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Exu Rei - Abdias do Nascimento explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2017 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Bárbara Vento respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Exu Rei - Abdias do Nascimento is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Abdias Nascimento or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Exu Rei - Abdias do Nascimento is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.