The Next Samba 2017
Step behind the glittering curtain of Rio's legendary Carnival with *The Next Samba (2017)*, Marcelo Lavandoski's vibrant documentary that pulls back the sequin curtain on Estação Primeira de Mangueira.
Director: Marcelo Lavandoski
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Next Samba (2017) about?
*The Next Samba* plunges viewers into the year-long journey of Mangueira, Rio's famed samba school, as it battles to reclaim Carnival glory after a 14-year drought. The documentary follows every step of the process—from songwriting and costume design to the poignant loss of a long-time vocalist—culminating in a celebration of samba's enduring spirit and cultural significance.
Who directed The Next Samba?
The film was directed by Marcelo Lavandoski, a filmmaker whose lens captures the raw energy and emotional depth of Carnival's creative process.
Who stars in The Next Samba?
The documentary features iconic Brazilian vocalists Maria Bethânia, Beth Carvalho, and Alcione, alongside the unsung heroes behind Mangueira's legendary productions.
Is The Next Samba (2017) worth watching?
As a documentary, *The Next Samba* shines with its authentic portrayal of Carnival's heart and soul. While IMDb ratings aren't listed, its blend of cultural depth, behind-the-scenes drama, and electrifying music makes it a compelling watch for fans of music, history, and human stories.
How long is The Next Samba?
*The Next Samba* runs for 106 minutes, offering a cinematic immersion into the highs and lows of preparing for Carnival.
The Next Samba (2017): Behind the Scenes of Rio's Greatest Carnival — Full Movie Info
Step behind the glittering curtain of Rio's legendary Carnival with *The Next Samba (2017)*, Marcelo Lavandoski's vibrant documentary that pulls back the sequin curtain on Estação Primeira de Mangueira. This isn't just a parade—it's a year-long metamorphosis of sweat, passion, and tears, as thousands of artists, designers, and drummers unite to craft a spectacle that could restore Mangueira to glory after 14 years without a title. From the first drumbeat to the final samba note, Lavandoski captures the raw emotion and relentless creativity fueling one of the world's most iconic samba schools, blending the rhythm of the streets with the heartbeat of a community in transformation.
Through intimate interviews with legendary vocalists Maria Bethânia, Beth Carvalho, and Alcione, the film transforms the spectacle of Carnival into a deeply human story of resilience and artistic devotion. The camera lingers on the chaos of costume ateliers, the tension of last-minute adjustments, and the collective joy when triumph finally arrives—all set against the electric backdrop of Mangueira's history and the unshakable belief that samba is more than music; it's a way of life.