National cinema loses this Thursday (24) one of its main references. Filmmaker and professor Vladimir Carvalho passed away at the age of 89, due to a heart attack and kidney problems. There is still no information about wake and burial.
The governor of the Federal District, Ibaneis Rocha, declared three days of official mourning. “A reference in Brazilian cinema, Professor Vladimir Carvalho dedicated his art to denouncing injustices and giving a voice to the underserved in a time of censorship and political persecution. He contributed to changing the Brazilian cinematic language, formed a generation of fierce filmmakers, led and ennobled the name of Brasília on the international cultural scene”, stated the governor, through social media.
Federal deputy Erika Kokay (PT-DF) also spoke online and remembered the legacy left by Vladimir. “Irreparable loss. Vladimir Carvalho was a master. After enchanting us so much with his extensive work, he is enchanted today, but will remain eternal. He leaves a great legacy in the history of Brazilian cinema and a great love for Brasília”, highlighted the parliamentarian.
Filmmaker Josias Teófilo also paid tribute to the filmmaker: “Vladimir made so many relevant documentaries about Brazilian culture, portrayed Cícero Dias, José Lins do Rego. He was on the jury that awarded The Garden of Afflictions at Cine PE, which is one of my greatest prides. Go in peace, friend.”
From Paraíba, Vladimir Carvalho lived in Salvador before moving to Brasília and meeting Glauber Rocha. He was part of the new cinema movement and was one of the first professors at the University of Brasília.
Among his main productions are The Country of São Saruê, Niemeyer’s Itinerary, José Lins do Rego, The Gospel According to Teotônio, Barra 68 and Old Countrymen of War.
In 2015, Vladimir Carvalho was honored at the opening of the Brasília Brazilian Cinema Festivalat Cine Brasília. On the occasion, he declared all his love for the capital and cinema: “I landed in Brasília in 1964, I entered through this door [do Cine Brasília] with my film, and that resulted in a 45-year adventure. I came to stay for two months, and I’ve been here for 45 years. We can’t stay here with hypocrisy, with false modesty. I say with all sincerity, without shame, and with humility: I deserve it, Brasília! Thanks!”