Emicida: AmarElo: It's All for Yesterday

Emicida: AmarElo - It’s All for Yesterday is a captivating Brazilian musical documentary that premiered on Netflix in 2020. As a fascinating blend of concert film and documentary, the film serves as an exploration of contemporary Brazilian culture and history through the lens of celebrated rapper, Emicida. Filmmaker Fred Ouro Preto masterfully interweaves varied elements to present an emotive journey of one man's struggle, resilience and ultimate triumph.

The movie is led by Leandro Roque de Oliveira, known by his stage name Emicida, one of Brazil's most influential hip-hop artists. Known for his incisive lyrics that often discuss social issues and his innate ability to communicate through music, Emicida uses this platform to present a symbolic concert at Theatro Municipal, São Paulo’s historic opera house. This landmark event held in 2019 sees Emicida become the first rapper to headline the prestigious venue. This concert provides the backbone for the documentary, creating an immersive and emotional journey for the audience.

Emicida is not alone in his stage takeover. Throughout the film, several well-known Brazilian artists make appearances, including singer Pabllo Vittar and samba legend Zeca Pagodinho. These invigorating collaborations add richness and depth to the musical landscape of the film, showcasing the diverse genres of Brazilian music: samba, funk carioca, sertanejo, bossa nova, and, of course, hip hop.

The bright beats and uplifting music do more than just entertain. They present an engaging narrative threaded with strong themes that evoke a deep sense of African-Brazilian pride and identity. Emicida’s lyrics, poignant and socially conscious, not only tell his story but also reflect on the socio-political conditions in Brazil, drawing attention to racial disparity, black resistance, and the socioeconomic struggle endured by marginalized communities. His vision goes beyond the stage and music; Emicida aims to voice the reality of Brazilian people, particularly those who feel under-represented and unheard.

Despite its musical focal point, “Emicida: AmarElo - It’s All for Yesterday” is not only for music buffs. The film delves into the stark, often overlooked chapters of Brazilian history, bringing to the fore stories of black and indigenous resistance. Through historical photographs, archival footage, and engaging animations, it sheds light on significant events like the Canudos War and the Revolta da Chibata – episodes that have shaped the modern face of Brazilian society. The film creatively connects Emicida’s present struggle as an Afro-Brazilian man to these historic events, underlining his journey's spirituality and historical significance.

But the documentary is more than a sequence of historical facts and events. The depth of research and factual storytelling is balanced by personal anecdotes from Emicida and his colleagues, offering a candid insight into the man behind the music. As voices from different backgrounds and generations come together, these moments highlight the strength of community and the power of collective memory. These human stories create a striking juxtaposition with the concert’s vibrancy, making the documentary an emotional experience that resonates beyond the screen.

Fred Ouro Preto's direction vividly taps into an extraordinary color palette, as the bright golds, greens, and purples of the concert are complemented by captivating visuals. Cinematic and compelling, Ouro Preto ensures that the documentary not only informs but also inspires. Coupled with Emicida's stirring music, the clever use of cinematography adds an extra layer of meaning to the film.

"Emicida: AmarElo – It’s All for Yesterday" is much more than a musical documentary. It is a heartfelt, thought-provoking exploration of the African-Brazilian identity that combines beats, rhymes, and a deep-rooted understanding of Brazil’s social and cultural history. The film goes beyond the celebration of a musical success story. It offers a voice to the voiceless, making a powerful statement about resilience, pride, and the power of music to inspire change. As a passport into the heart and soul of Brazil, it encapsulates the sound, spirit, and struggle of a nation.