Paulo Emílio Sales Gomes

Nitrato expresses the ambiguities and contradictions of the Cinemateca Brasileira. The film deals with the richness of its collection, the recognition of international entities, and explores what its relationship to the general public was like. Nitrato also portrays the neglect with which the institution is treated, as seen in how precarious its building infrastructure is, how politicians neglected to communicate with the institution’s staff, and the aftermath of another fire in the building.

São Paulo, late 30's. Alberto is an intellectual and professor who announces to his friend and pupil Polidoro he won a scholarship to study in Paris. In Paris Polidoro receives a letter in which Alberto announces that he married Helena. Polidoro returns to Brazil in 1945, when there was a strong political agitation against the New State. Alberto invites Polidoro to spend a few days at his home in Campos do Jordão. After reaching the site he is told by Helena that Alberto was forced to travel urgently. She insists he should stay there until the return of her husband and, while waiting, she seduces him. Then, after several days of intense passion, she orders Polidoro to go away and never see her again.

The affectionate relationship between mentor Alberto and his favorite pupil Polydoro is disturbed by Alberto's marriage to Helena, with life-changing and long-lasting consequences for all of them.

Based on the life of a classic french cineast Jean Vigo, the story follows his daily struggle with sanity, normal life and uncompromising filmmaking. Story also focuses on his relationship with his supporting wife whom he met in sanatorium.

Couple whose marriage is at stake delve into the past, with the help of a diary and some home movies. In these movies, Helena, the woman's suicidal friend, has an important role.