Monday, May 23, 2011

What I’m Digging Right Now: Black Orpheus


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I recent
ly re-watched the 1959 Brazilian film Black Orpheus  which, made obvious by the title, is a retelling of the classic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice.

 

The film is set in a favela of Rio during caraval and if you have not seen it, it is a riot of color, beauty  and drama all set to a samba beat.

 

What really struck me while watching it is the pervasiveness of black culture in the film. I rarely see the  African elements of Brazilian society emphasised in popular culture (or at least what gets exported to the states), however it is the focus of this film from the people of the favela to the music to the Candomblé ceremony at the end.

 

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From an aesthetic perspective I am in love with costume design with the bright colors and the 50's feminine silhouettes .  

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I’m inspired to incorporate these  into my summer wardrobe making bright dresses with nipped in waists a staple.  Something like this Boxing KItten dress would be right up my alley. 

 

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If you haven’t seen it I highly recommended checking it out.

 

Also I’ve been taking Samba classes at Alvin Ailey on Wednesdays from 7:30-9. If you are in NYC I really really recommend.  Come shake your ass with me.

 http://www.alvinailey.org/beginner-samba/afro-brazilian
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