Arquivo

The story of one of the most important composers and performers in Brazilian music. Angenor de Oliveira was born in Rio de Janeiro on October 11, 1908. He was nicknamed Cartola (Top Hat) when, as a bricklayer, he decided on a bowler hat so the cement would not adhere to his hair. Cartola is proof of the astonishing nature of genuine talent. He completed only elementary school and only worked in part time jobs as a bricklayer, wall painter, car washer, as a watchman, and as an office boy for government departments. However, his talent made him the greatest Rio samba composer of all times, with impeccable lyrics and delightful percussion. In fragmented language, the documentary outlines a powerful panel for a cultural background in the country - an invitation for reflection on the building of memory in the country. This is the portrait of a man who reconstructed himself with his times. Photography directing is by Master Aloysio Raulino, who also worked on O Homem que Virou Suco (1981, selection for the 4th Mostra), O Prisioneiro da Grade de Ferro (2003), and the recent Serras da Desordem (2006, also selected for the 30th Mostra).