Cast
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José Wilker
as Tenório Cavalcanti
Marieta Severo
as Zina
Jonas Bloch
as Adolfo
Isolda Cresta
as Tenório's Mother
Jurandir de Oliveira
as Venâncio
Guilherme Karan
as Flávio Cavalcanti
Tonico Pereira
as Bereco
Paulo Villaça
as Maragato
Jackson de Souza
as Cabral
Chico Diaz
as Manezinho
Carlos Gregório
as Silas Gonçalves
Mano Melo
as
Crew
Director
- Sérgio Rezende
Writer
- Sérgio Rezende
- José Louzeiro
- Tairone Feitosa
Producer
- Mariza Leão
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Man in the Black Cape represents a fascinating example of Crime/History cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Sérgio Rezende brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1986, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Man in the Black Cape took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 120 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 153 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1986, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Man in the Black Cape shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Underwater Papanikolis, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Man in the Black Cape subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Flu That Killed 50 Million and Titanic: How It Really Sank explore similar territory, The Man in the Black Cape stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 31, 1986
- Runtime: 2h
