Brazil

In the Kuikuro homeland of the Upper Xingu of central Brazil, the people make preparations for the Jamurikumalu ritual: a festival of singing and dancing that is only performed by women. The problem is that the only woman who knows all the songs is seriously ill. With refreshingly sexually suggestive commentary and comedic elements, this astounding documentary follows the Kuikuro in a race against time to preserve the knowledge of their elders and the practice of their traditions before they are lost forever.

With a phenomenal use of music, minimal dialogue, and beautifully textured black and white cinematography, Transeunte follows the story of Expedito, a retiree who has lost all ties with life. As he wanders through the bustling centre of Rio de Janeiro amongst so many other anonymous faces, he plays witness to the dramas of others that he observes in the streets. And yet, he passes by unnoticed, as though he has become an extra in his own life story. The routine of his days leads to a profound alienation that seems immovable.