STORYLINE: Downtown Recife’s classic movie palaces from the 20th century are mostly gone. That city area is now an archaeological site of sorts that reveals aspects of life in society which have been lost. And that’s just part of the story. (IMDb)

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view… Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” Gregory Peck To Kill A Mockingbird. 

That incredible quote, from am incredible movie, has been illustrated on a global scale in documentaries such as Mr Nobody Against Putin (2025), God Grew Tired of Us (2006), and Samsara (2011).  2023’s Pictures of Ghosts is Brazilian documentary, in the same vein.

    For those who saw the Oscar nominated The Secret Agent (2025), Pictures of Ghosts is the genesis for that film.   As a fan of documentaries, and a fan of seeing films that inspire other features I enjoy, I ceased the opportunity to attend a screening. 

    Pictures of Ghosts is a snap shot of 1970’s Brazil.  It captures the influence of American pop culture, and Brazilian politics, on the filmmaker.  Combing first hand narration with archival footage, and reenactment videos r the viewer is treated to an in-depth look to both the subject of the film and Brazilian 1970’s culture. 

     It was fascinating to watch the imagery in front of me, and hear experiencesof the time firsthand.  This was from a foreign culture, and a time before I was born. 

   Pictures of Ghosts is a documentary that inspired an international feature, from the sane director, I enjoyed. It was a fascinating firsthand experience of 1970s Brazil.

    Until next time, I will see you at the movies!