Black Rio! Black Power!

Screening introduced by DJ and musicologist Greg Caz

Dir. Emilio Domingos. 2023, 70 mins. Brazil. DCP. In Portuguese with English subtitles. This fascinating documentary explores the transformative power of soul music in 1970s Rio de Janeiro, where dance events became crucial spaces for the political affirmation and resistance of the young black community. Through the lens of the Black Rio Movement, the film highlights the role of music in the struggle for racial equality during Brazil’s military dictatorship and traces its enduring influence on genres like hip–hop and funk. It also examines the movement’s legacy on Black pride, aesthetic values, and the ongoing fight for racial justice, as seen through the experiences of movement leaders like Dom Filó and the impact on subsequent generations. Co-presented by Brasil Summerfest, as part of Las Premieres, co-presented by Cinema Tropical.

Greg Caz is a NYC-based DJ and musicologist who helped curate Brazilian music compilations for Boston-based reissue label Cultures of Soul, and exposed NYC dancefloors to Brazilian rhythms as a part of the long-running DJ night “Brazilian Beat Brooklyn.” Caz hosts a monthly show called “Warm Wave” on Soho Radio that spotlights Brazilian music, jazz-funk, Yacht rock, reggae, R&B, psych, and Latin music.

Tickets: $15 / $11 senior and students / $9 youth (ages 3–17) / discounted for MoMI members ($7–$11). There is a $1.50 transaction fee per ticket for all online purchases. The cost of admission may be applied toward a same-day purchase of a membership. 

Order tickets. Please pick up tickets at the Museum’s admissions desk upon arrival. All seating is general admission.