Un homme avec un grand H

It's been a long time since I watched and re-watched a film on loop. It now happens to me with this biopic introducing to life and career of Ney Matogrosso (absolutely little known in Italy). And what a shame that his human and artistic story did not meet with the favor of distribution in my country. The film was also an opportunity to meet other Brazilian stage celebrities (Cazuza) who are also unknown here.

The film is fast paced, catchy and hot. The protagonist, what can I say? Jesuita Barbosa takes it all and steals the scene from the supporting actors. With his look a little crazy a little tender, the dazzling choreographies and music, the amazing costumes, here is a film that I will see again and again.

'Homem com H' is one of the best biography docudrama's I have seen so far. The movie intelligently portrays the story of a well-respected brazilian artist by offering the audience a glimpse into his private life in a way that is coherent and entertaining, making us feel like we understand what is going on in Ney Matogrosso's head and why he becomes the iconic personality that he is today.

Jesuíta Barbosa's performance as Ney Matogrosso rivals that of Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury ('Bohemian Rhapsody') in it's thoughtfullness towards incorporating every mannerism and way of thinking that the real-life people they are portraying have. It is an honestly incredible, very much award-worthy performance that balances the line between being nuanced and overdramatized. The rest of the cast similarly does a phenomenal job in portraying their real-life counterparts without taking away the focus from the protagonist.

The movie is incredibly explicit, perhaps excessively so, but one must assume that it is an important and relevant part of Ney's life, and that his story could not have been told as faithfully without it. If you do not enjoy sex scenes, or gay sex scenes, this biography may not be for you, but otherwise it is a fascinating piece of biographical storytelling and an absolute must watch even for those who are not familiar with Ney Matogrosso - if nothing else, his music alone is sure to leave you with a good first impression as you walk out of the movie theatre.

Homem com H is one of those films that doesn't just tell a story - it lives inside it. Elegantly and bravely directed by Esmir Filho, the movie dives into the essence of Ney Matogrosso, delivering a visual, musical, and emotionally powerful experience.

From the very first moments, the narrative shows great care: the film has no unnecessary pauses or dragging scenes. On the contrary - each moment pulses with energy, echoing the restless and rebellious rhythm that has always defined Ney. This is a biopic that avoids clichés, choosing instead a more artistic, performative, and poetic path. In this sense, Azul Serra's cinematography deserves special praise: it not only captures concerts and behind-the-scenes moments beautifully but turns them into living canvases of expression and resistance.

The standout, however, is Jesuíta Barbosa's performance. He doesn't imitate Ney - he becomes him. From body language to his soft yet firm voice, from the stage presence to intimate silences, Jesuíta conveys the raw and delicate strength of one of Brazil's greatest artists. His portrayal is undoubtedly one of the most powerful in recent Brazilian cinema.

The film succeeds in portraying Ney's public and private persona with sensitivity, especially his courageous stance during Brazil's military dictatorship. It's moving to see how Ney, through art and sensuality, challenged censorship, repression, and prejudice during such a fearful time.

That said, some aspects could have been explored in greater depth. Ney's relationship with Marco de Maria, for instance, is briefly mentioned but underdeveloped - the same goes for his connection with Cazuza and the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which deeply affected his artistic generation. These are glimpses that deserved more time and emotional depth.

Still, Homem com H is a necessary film - for fans, for those unfamiliar with Ney, and especially for a country still in need of revisiting its wounds and recognizing its symbols of freedom. Ney Matogrosso was - and is - one of those symbols. And here, his story receives the tribute it deserves: visceral, intense, artistic, and true.

Jesuíta Barbosa delivers a phenomenal performance. I really enjoyed his acting and the overall work of the film. There were moments when I felt a bit lost, but the musical performances brought me back. The cinematography, editing, and technical aspects were all very well done, but the real standout here is Jesuíta.

The storytelling could have been a bit better, but I believe it was the intention of the Director and Ney Matogrosso himself, which I respect as a viewer.

I'm not one for comparisons, but I enjoyed it more than "Bohemian Rhapsody".

Please give the World Cup to Jesuíta Barbosa, he deserves it. Thank you, Brazil.

The movie "Latin Blood: The Ballad of Ney Matogrosso" tells the powerful story of a Brazilian music legend whose fearless style and voice left a lasting mark on the country.

Director Esmir Filho does an incredible job capturing Ney Matogrosso's life in bold, expressive style-tracing his journey from a tough childhood with an abusive father, through the free-spirited 60s, his sexual awakening, the explosive rise of the group "Secos & Molhados", and his fearless challenge to Brazil's military regime, all the way to his iconic solo career.

Jesuíta Barbosa's jaw-dropping performance as Ney Matogrosso, he fully incorporates the role, nailing every move, every glance, every gesture with incredible precision.

The movie also highlights Ney's biggest musical milestones while also diving into his passionate encounters set against the backdrop of Rio's sun-soaked beaches.

At its core, the movie offers insight into the choices and mindset that shaped this star's journey-and it's absolutely worth a watch!!!!