A Hora e a Vez de Augusto Matraga

Based on the story by Guimarães Rosa (a kind of Brazilian James Joyce), the saga of Augusto Matraga, a rude, belligerent and womanizer farmer who is forced out of the powerful top space for the oppressed and marginalized, reminds us that there is no more room for the mythical heroes of the past, because modern man brings within not only the hero, but also the coward, not only good, but also evil. Through his hard work, his prayers and faith that he would have his time and choice, Augusto develops a compassion that was profoundly hidden. Bravely and surprisingly he finds its ultimate redemption. Masterfully filmed in the region of Diamantina (North of Minas Gerais), a delight to the eyes, the film reveals a little bit of the linguistic ingenuity of Guimarães Rosa, rebuilding the Portuguese language from the simple people from backwoods. To watch and appreciate.

The review of SolantGomes is good, but fails perspective. The brilliant story -- considered the masterpiece of brazilian genius GuimarãesRosa (Nobel nominate) -- has its roots in Greek/Latin & Medieval mythologies. Like Perseus and Arthur, Matraga goes from "kingdom" and pleasure, all the way down to Hell. And to free his soul through redemption, he must suffer and toil. The film captures deeply the original story and is by far worth of the many prizes it won. Photography is perfect, actors are brilliant and plot develops perfectly. Not to be missed !!