Review of Black Orpheus (1959) by Daniel K — 27 Aug 2010
Based on the tragic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice (but set in Rio de Janeiro during Carnaval), "Black Orpheus" brims with colour and vibrancy, painting a mesmerizing environment with beautiful photography and rich music by the great Antonio Carlos Jobim.
The film has been criticized in its country of origin for simplifying Brazilian culture down to a non-stop samba party, but the real problem with its relentless evocation of the carnival is more that it has an exhausting affect.
It's in the more removed moments on Orpheus' odyssey to seek out his lost love that the film becomes really interesting.
This review of Black Orpheus (1959) was written by Daniel K on 27 Aug 2010.
Black Orpheus has generally received very positive reviews.
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