Beard, Hair & Stache

With testimonies from stars such as Ademir da Guia, Afonsinho, Gerson and Nei da Conceição, the film pays tribute to Didi, Mr. Football, elected best player in the 1958 World Cup and inventor of the dry leaf kick.

In order to invent a region, it is necessary to create its culture, preferably with the help of cinema. Inspired by the book and play “A Invenção do Nordeste”, this is a re-editing of Brazilian films essential to the foundation of the Northeastern imaginary.

The mystical element plays an unusual role in the civilizing process of Brazilian society. Realms such as samba, malandragem, soccer, and Carnival reflect this process, which unfolded in the shadow of the Precarious. On the street, in the terreiro, at the bar, in the favela, at the crossroads, or on the floodplain—a multifaceted historical and cultural identity was forged, resulting from the intersection of Amerindian and African spiritualities and European popular Catholicism. Macumbaria explores the phenomenon of the “macumba complex” through the lens of historian Luiz Antonio Simas, the film’s narrator.

Star player Nei Conceição, formerly of Botafogo, is the author of aphorisms rich in spot-on puns, unique insights, and keen perceptiveness—proving that his genius transcends the playing field.

Whether in the midfield, or in any other medium, consciousness is the method. This is demonstrated by A8, an audiovisual monologue in short film with Afonsinho, who knows how to see more than his teammates on the field: – “In order to have a game you need your opponent too”. The heir of Zizinho and Didi’s jersey number values individual talent, but doesn’t ignore that, without the guy who does the heavy work, there is no solo performance. There is no owner of the ball in A8.