The Nightmare of António Maria 1923
Step into the fascinating world of early Portuguese cinema with *The Nightmare of António Maria (1923)*, a groundbreaking silent animation that holds the distinction of being the country's first animated film.
Director: Joaquim Guerreiro
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Nightmare of António Maria (1923) about?
This short silent animation portrays António Maria da Silva, Portugal's then-President of the Ministry, trudging home after a grueling day's work. The film uses early animation techniques to blend political satire with a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere, making it a unique artifact of early Portuguese cinema.
Who directed The Nightmare of António Maria?
Joaquim Guerreiro directed *The Nightmare of António Maria (1923)*, marking it as one of Portugal's first forays into animated storytelling.
Who stars in The Nightmare of António Maria?
The film features António Maria da Silva, a prominent historical figure, as the central character, though the full cast details remain unknown.
Is The Nightmare of António Maria (1923) worth watching?
As a historical curiosity and the first Portuguese animated film, *The Nightmare of António Maria* is a fascinating watch for cinephiles and animation historians. Its brevity and silent-era charm make it a niche but rewarding experience.
How long is The Nightmare of António Maria?
The Nightmare of António Maria runs for 2 minutes.
About The Nightmare of António Maria (1923) — First Portuguese Animated Film & Hidden Cinematic Treasure
Step into the fascinating world of early Portuguese cinema with *The Nightmare of António Maria (1923)*, a groundbreaking silent animation that holds the distinction of being the country's first animated film. Directed by Joaquim Guerreiro, this two-minute gem follows António Maria da Silva, then-President of the Ministry of the First Republic of Portugal, as he trudges home after a long day's work. Though long lost to time, the original drawings were digitally reconstructed in 2006, breathing new life into this historical curiosity. A delicate piano score by maestro António Victorino d'Almeida adds an atmospheric layer, transforming a fleeting moment into a haunting yet whimsical snapshot of early 20th-century Portugal.
This silent-era curiosity blends sharp political satire with the playful charm of early animation, offering a rare glimpse into the creative spirits of its time. *The Nightmare of António Maria (1923)* may be brief, but its historical significance and nostalgic allure make it a must-see for film enthusiasts and animation historians alike.