The documentary Milton Bituca Nascimento recently premiered in Brazilian cinemas. Milton Nascimento, the famous Brazilian singer, watched the testimonies on screen for the first time with a smile and an emotional look on his face. Even at 82 years old, with a long history of successes, it was hard to remain impassive while hearing so many artists from Brazil and abroad speak of him with admiration and respect.
The two-hour film offers a behind-the-scenes look at the musician’s farewell tour in 2022 and his reunion with fans from different parts of the world.
“My feeling about the film is one of great happiness, especially when I think of the many precious friends that life has given me, who are present in the film. I am grateful for all the affection and love I receive from so many people. I have been guided by my friends and by music throughout my career, and that is what really matters in my life,” Nascimento said.
More than 40 personalities from Brazil and abroad give their testimonies about Nascimento. Among the more experienced artists are Gilberto Gil, Djavan, Chico Buarque, João Bosco, and Ivan Lins, but names from recent generations are also present, which helps to put into perspective Nascimento’s timeless influence.
Beyond Brazil’s borders, the artist’s voice and talent have enchanted traditional jazz figures from the U.S., such as Wayne Shorter, Stanley Clarke, and Herbie Hancock, as well as folk rock names like Paul Simon. Also in the U.S., filmmaker Spike Lee speaks about his intimacy and fascination with the Brazilian singer-songwriter, as does Fito Páez, a major star of Argentine rock.
Narrated by 95-year-old Oscar-nominated actress Fernanda Montenegro, the documentary also provides insight into how racial issues have permeated Nascimento’s life. From episodes of racism in his childhood in Minas Gerais to the respect that black artists and intellectuals dedicate to the singer.
Another aspect briefly addressed in the film is Nascimento’s fragile health status. He has diabetes, and his son, Augusto Nascimento, recently revealed that his father suffers from Parkinson’s disease.
The Direction
Director Flavia Moraes said that two years were dedicated to filming the documentary.
“I took great care not to turn it into a promotional piece. But the accolades are inevitable. Obviously, there are tributes because he is saying goodbye to the stage. And it is a selection, not a chronological biography. A two-hour documentary simply could not encompass all of Bituca’s greatness,” said the director, who refers to Nascimento by the family nickname Bituca.
Source: Agência Brasil