What Shall I Do With This Sword? 1975
João César Monteiro's *What Shall I Do With This Sword? (1975)* is a bold and experimental documentary that weaves together raw footage of Portuguese workers protesting NATO's military presence with striking clips from classic films.
Director: João César Monteiro
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *What Shall I Do With This Sword? (1975)* about?
This experimental documentary by João César Monteiro examines the power of protest by contrasting real footage of Portuguese workers demonstrating against NATO with dramatic scenes from classic films. The film uses the metaphor of a sword to explore how resistance can confront authority, blending history, art, and activism into a compelling visual essay.
Who directed *What Shall I Do With This Sword? (1975)*?
The film was directed by João César Monteiro, a prominent Portuguese filmmaker known for his politically charged and visually inventive works that often challenge societal norms.
Who stars in *What Shall I Do With This Sword? (1975)*?
The cast includes Maria Velho da Costa, João Diogo, and Margarida Gil, who contribute to the film's layered exploration of protest and symbolism.
Is *What Shall I Do With This Sword? (1975)* worth watching?
While it's an unconventional choice, *What Shall I Do With This Sword?* offers a unique perspective on documentary filmmaking and political resistance. Its short runtime and experimental style make it an intriguing watch for fans of historical films and thought-provoking cinema, though it may not appeal to all audiences due to its abstract approach.
How long is *What Shall I Do With This Sword? (1975)*?
The film has a runtime of 64 minutes.
About What Shall I Do With This Sword? (1975) — A provocative documentary on resistance and protest
João César Monteiro's *What Shall I Do With This Sword? (1975)* is a bold and experimental documentary that weaves together raw footage of Portuguese workers protesting NATO's military presence with striking clips from classic films. Through clever cross-editing, Monteiro crafts a visual metaphor about the power of resistance, framing a single symbolic sword as both a tool of rebellion and a challenge to armed forces. The film's juxtaposition of real-life defiance and cinematic drama creates an atmosphere of urgency and provocation, making it a fascinating study of protest through the lens of history and art.
With a runtime of just over an hour, this Portuguese historical documentary stands out for its unconventional storytelling and political edge. Monteiro's direction blends documentary realism with playful, almost poetic editing, inviting viewers to ponder the role of symbolism in social movements. The film's themes—anti-war, labor rights, and the potency of imagery—resonate as strongly today as they did in the 1970s, offering a timeless commentary on resistance and resilience.