One of the most iconic traditions of Rio de Janeiro’s street Carnival has been turned into a brand-new short film. And Rio residents will have the chance to learn more about the world of the bate-bolas with the free screening of “Sonho e Delírio” at the Sesc Arte Cultural Space. Learn more about the event!
“Dream and Delirium” combines photographs by Luiz Baltar with text by João do Rio
Anyone born and raised in Rio de Janeiro knows or has heard of the bate-bolas. But behind one of Carnival’s most mysterious traditions lies a complex network of knowledge passed down from generation to generation.
Thus, the short documentary “Dream and Delirium” invites the audience to immerse themselves in this universe. Produced and released by Fluxorama, the film builds a dialogue between eras, languages, and sensibilities by blending photographs by visual artist Luiz Baltar with the narration of the text “Cordões” by João do Rio, a chronicler of early 20th-century urban life in Rio de Janeiro.
The interweaving of image, literature, performance, and sound results in a sensory experience that spans past and present.
More than 200 active groups keep the bate-bolas tradition alive
According to Luiz Baltar, the cultural significance of the bate-bolas remains largely undocumented in the field of visual arts, despite their importance to Rio de Janeiro’s culture.
That’s because there are more than 200 active groups representing a vibrant Carnival tradition. A routine that ranges from the handcrafted creation of costumes, the unique languages of each group, and the codes of conduct to the rituals of the parades.
Thus, according to Luiz, the photographic documentation he has created over more than a decade (and incorporated into the film) helps to preserve and highlight this cultural expression that remains stigmatized.
Furthermore, according to director Marcio Nolasco, the film goes beyond a simple explanation of the bate-bolas. The aim is to invite the viewer to experience them, following this movement between meticulous preparation and collective euphoria that runs through Carnival.
Thus, just like Baltar’s images, the short film contributes to expanding the imagination surrounding this ritual and proposes new ways of looking at Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival .
If you’re curious to watch it, the film “Sonho e Delírio” will be screened for free at the Arte Sesc Cultural Space in Flamengo. After the screening, the film’s crew will participate in a discussion with the audience.
“Dream and Delirium”
📅March 28 | 3:30 p.m.
📌Sesc Arte Cultural Space | Rua Marquês de Abrantes, 99 – Flamengo
💵Free admission