By Roger Costa
ELIS AND ME
One of the front leaders in the foundation of MPB (Brazilian Popular Music) the late beloved singer Elis Regina finally gets a biopic that honors her artistry, determination and influence, but mostly unveil the artist from the diva status to introduce the most singular, simple and essential aspect of life: motherhood.
In this accurate and touching docu-drama, writer-director Andre Bushatsky adapts the eponymous 2019’s literary work, which tracks her son’s memories from childhood till his pre-teen, music-fueled days when she suddenly died of an overdose at the age of 36.
Told through Joao Marcelo Boscoli’s intimate and personal prism, the director gathers essential information from insightful interviews, not only tackling key moments in her sky-rocketing career but undressing the powerhouse artist and revealing a strong mother fighting time, work and circumstances to spend time with her children and educate them as dignified citizens of a country fading in socio-political nightmare.
Bushatsky crafts a unique portrait of caring love and mother’s sacrifices, taking the audience for a private tour through the singer’s tumultuous romantic life, glorious stage activity and her intimacy among her children. The scoop is so enhanced and accurate that it gives the narrative enough space to study the political landscape of 70’s Brazil, the years of Military dictatorship, the social transformations, and the impact of revolutionary music and art. Punctuated by her stunning performances, the film masterly blends the interviews with never-seen footage and musical moments, while Boscolli and some of her collaborators paint a definitive canvas of one the most celebrated Brazilian singers of all times. MIdway into the film, the director introduces the dramatic reenactment style with positive results.
Actress Lilian Menezes embodies Elis with elegance and firm presence, delivering a charismatic performance as she deals with mother duties, womanhood, patriarchy and business. The same goes for newcomer Victor Constantino, who plays Joao Marcelo as a pre-teen learning music and shaping himself into a top producer- he brings sensibility and fresh energy to a young character navigating family crisis and aspirations. These moments serve to reflect deeply and more consistently into the idyllic atmosphere experienced by mother and children, offering heartwarming moments in the countryside, the beach and simply around the house.
A triumphant look at balancing motherhood and stardom, Bushatsky dives into Elis’ career as a truly admirer: from her early years being disputed by local radios, to the rise as a MPB leader, and from the chaotic recording of “Elis and Tom” (recorded in Los Angeles) to her tumultuous marriages, the film is a truthful testament ot the leading power of an artist who defied the standards of both society and industry, only to be herself and to continue making passionate music.
A very tender, immersive and heart rendering musical experience that celebrates motherhood in all of its loving force.
(“Elis and Me” screens as part of the 5th New York Brazilian Film Series, Sunday, May 3rd at 5pm at Cinema Village, NYC. Go to ELIS AND ME – Cinema Village for details. A NBC/Universal Release.)
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