School of Film and Media Studies

Presented by Dr. Paula Halperin, Rio, Zona Norte (1957), directed by Nelson Pereira dos Santos, holds a key place in the history of Brazilian cinema because it helped lay the groundwork for the Cinema Novo, the influential 1960s movement that reshaped filmmaking in Brazil. The movie stands out for its strong social realism, portraying life in the working-class neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro through the story of a struggling samba composer who is exploited by the music industry, played by Grande Otelo.

By focusing on marginalized characters and openly addressing social inequality, the film drew inspiration from Italian neorealism. In Nelson Pereira dos Santos’s career, Rio, Zona Norte represents the consolidation of a socially engaged and realistic filmmaking approach that he had already begun developing in Rio 40 Graus (1955), influencing later filmmakers such as Glauber Rocha.

Today, the film remains highly relevant because it addresses social inequality, cultural marginalization, and the exploitation of artists. The film is especially important because it offers an unfiltered look at Brazilian society, moving beyond common stereotypes and tourist images.

Devised works emerging from an elective course. A collaboration between students and faculty/staff  from the following programs: Playwriting/Screenwriting, BA-THP, with support from BFA Theatre Design/Technology.

The Humanities symposium is a way to share and celebrate the great work of our students with faculty, friends, and family.