Decolonizing the Brazilian audiovisual and cinema history

representation and participation of Natives, Africans and Afrodescendants

Abstract

This article is an attempt to initiate a systematized discussion about the need to decolonize the historiography of the Brazilian audiovisual and cinema, drawing attention to the fact that the canon created through evaluations and choices of films and filmmakers ended up forming a white and, therefore, hegemonic narrative, still embedded in the asymmetrical structure of colonial power and in the subsequent subalternization of the Other. The main objective is to make a contribution to the awareness of the negative, stereotypical and limited representation of indigenous, African and afrodescendant characters, explaining its origins. Furthermore, it aims to encourage further studies that build on the few we already have. To this end, the article brings a panoramic view of existing studies, especially on feature films considered canonical that are based on the portrayals and myths developed in art and literature. Furthermore, the article points to the notable absence of indigenous and afrodescendant filmmakers in historiography and production, but also indicates the current increase in production and the need to give it more critical attention. Thus, it argues that in order to have a decolonial historiography in Brazil it would be necessary to revise the canon and include other epistemologies, in order to adequately include afrodescendant and indigenous production in the future.