Portuguese Cinema Days: Banzo

Original title: Banzo

127 Min. | PT, NL, FR | 2024

Language: OmeU | Original language: Portuguese

Director: Margarida Cardoso

Portuguese Cinema Days in Berlin presents a selection of feature films, documentaries and short films that show the diversity and energy of contemporary Portuguese cinema. From personal stories to social and historical themes, the program takes the audience on a cinematic journey through Portugal’s past and present.
Screenings are followed by Q&A sessions with filmmakers, inviting audiences into deeper conversations. And to close each evening, a glass of Port wine – a warm invitation to connect, exchange ideas, and celebrate cinema together.

 

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1907. Afonso starts life anew on a tropical island off the African coast, as a plantation physician. He is tasked with treating servants “infected” by Banzo, a profound homesickness fatal to many enslaved people who succumb to starvation or take their own lives. To prevent spreading, the group is sent to a secluded hill encircled by forest. Afonso tries to heal them, but understanding their spirits is a challenge stronger than any medical intervention.