Foundational Films

"In her authoritative new book, Maite Conde introduces readers to the crucial early years of Brazilian cinema. Focusing on silent film released during the First Republic (1889-1930), Foundational films explores how the medium became implicated in a larger project to transform Brazil into a modern nation. Analyzing an array of cinematic forms, from depictions of contemporary life, to fan magazines, to experimental avant-garde productions, Conde demonstrates the distinct ways in which Brazil's early film culture helped to project a new image of the country"--Provided by publisher.