Closer to the animal 2025
"Movement. Intimacy. Resistance."
"Closer to the animal (2025)" follows Marta Cardoso, a spirited dancer from northern Portugal, as she navigates the chaotic rhythm of Lisbon life. Her world is a whirlwind of temporary jobs, fleeting relationships, and an existence that never quite settles.
Director: Afonso Branco
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Closer to the animal (2025) about?
This documentary explores the life of Marta Cardoso, a young dancer from northern Portugal, as she navigates Lisbon's unpredictable rhythms. Dance becomes her refuge, a space where instinct and freedom merge, allowing her to confront life's uncertainties with raw, unfiltered movement.
Who directed Closer to the animal?
Afonso Branco directs this intimate documentary, weaving Marta's journey with a visual sensitivity that highlights the power of dance as both escape and expression.
Who stars in Closer to the animal?
The film stars Marta Cardoso, Sofia Camboa, Catarina Marques, Liliana Oliveira, and Rodrigo Loureiro, each contributing to the documentary's exploration of movement and identity.
Is Closer to the animal (2025) worth watching?
With its poetic visuals and themes of resilience, this short documentary offers a compelling look at the intersection of art and survival. While unrated, its immersive style and focus on raw emotion make it a standout for viewers who appreciate intimate, movement-driven storytelling.
How long is Closer to the animal?
The documentary runs for 21 minutes, a concise yet powerful exploration of dance and identity.
About Closer to the Animal (2025) — A raw, poetic dance documentary
"Closer to the animal (2025)" follows Marta Cardoso, a spirited dancer from northern Portugal, as she navigates the chaotic rhythm of Lisbon life. Her world is a whirlwind of temporary jobs, fleeting relationships, and an existence that never quite settles. Yet, within this turmoil, dance becomes her sanctuary—a raw, unfiltered language where instinct takes over and the body speaks louder than words. In Afonso Branco's intimate documentary, movement transforms into a form of resistance, a way to reconnect with what's primal and free. Through her restless energy, Marta finds a fleeting closeness to her 'inner animal,' a metaphor for the untamed spirit that thrives even in the most unstable environments.
The film captures Lisbon's pulse through Marta's eyes, blending the city's grit with moments of poetic stillness. With a camera that lingers on her explorations, Branco crafts a visual poem about resilience and self-discovery. The documentary is a celebration of the body's quiet rebellion, where every step feels like a breath of fresh air in a world that often feels suffocating.