Catalogue International Film Festival Rotterdam 2013

The camera takes in the position of João, in a room where the atmosphere is ecstatic. Everywhere in the crowded room, people are drinking, and dancing wildly.

The camera shifts fast and unsteadily, from one part of the room to another, mostly out of focus. Lights are flashing. The music sounds tropical but somewhat distorted and delayed. On top of the music we hear people’s voices.

João moves through the dancing crowd. Slowly, bumping into people. At least twenty people appear into the frame one by one. Their expressions are cheerful, sometimes laughing, sometimes clearly annoyed, looking directly into the camera. This goes on for three minutes. Then João reaches the bar. The camera turns to the bartender, who looks directly into the lens.

BARTENDER: Yes? JOÃO: I have some information about your brother José.