Title: Latin Blood – The Ballad of Ney Matogrosso
Year: 2025
Rating: 8.8
Cast: Jesuíta Barbosa, Rômulo Braga, Hermila Guedes
Description: A phoenix rising from the ashes of repression, Ney Matogrosso's life story, as vividly portrayed in Esmir Filho's "Latin Blood – The Ballad of Ney Matogrosso," is a testament to the transformative power of art. Jesuíta Barbosa delivers a mesmerizing performance, capturing the raw vulnerability and fierce determination that defined Matogrosso's journey from a stifled childhood to becoming a Brazilian icon. The film masterfully weaves together intimate moments with sweeping historical context, showcasing the artist's struggle against societal constraints and his unwavering commitment to self-expression. Filho's direction is both sensitive and powerful, leaving the audience deeply moved by Matogrosso's resilience and the enduring legacy of his music. This is not just a biographical film; it's a visceral exploration of identity, freedom, and the enduring human spirit.