Set in the vibrant city of Maputo, Mozambique, Feature narrative Era Oculta – “Hidden Era” centers on Rastafari artist Phambi. Struggling financially, though not artistically, Phambi is like any other parent who wants a better life for their child – he wants the best education possible for his son, Ixon. But Phambi’s issues making the school’s payments puts Ixon in perpetual peril of expulsion. When his newest work, a semi-nude portrait of Paula, a feminist who believes in expressing herself through her body, becomes a symbol of activism in the community, Phambi sees a path forward to making a living for himself and his son, while also being an ally for his muse.
Multi-hyphenate creator Carlos Vargas, producer-cinematographer of Melody of Love (Tribeca ‘23), makes his directorial debut with this beautifully shot meditation on art and what it means to live an artistic life. Against the backdrop of reggae, Rastafarianism, and the distinctive dynamics of Maputo, the film explores societal norms, revealing the transformative power of art as a form of resilience in the face of adversity.–– Jason Gutierrez – Programming Manager and Programmer at Tribeca Festival Read more
Gallery
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Festival Apparences – Status as of November 1, 2024.
Festival programmers interested in previewing the movie, whose festival version was finalized by the end of January 2024, are encouraged to contact us. Additionally, we are actively seeking distribution opportunities for the film.
Reviews
Amy Taubin – American author and film critic
Carlos Vargas’s Era Oculta is a film about a painter, in which every image has the complexity and subtlety of great painting. We are asked to patiently follow the journey of Phambi, a young, dedicated, Rastafarian artist, who shows us through his work an amazing city – Maputo, Mozambique – and the people who shape his vision, including his models -both feminist activists. Truly a unique and inspiring film.
Augusto Bernal Jiménez–
Former Director of the Department of the Museum of Modern Art in Bogota (MAMBO), Director of the District Cinematheque of Bogota.
“HIDDEN ERA” takes up all its narrative forms, created from its title. The hidden of an era. Which one? Perhaps our own when we return to the reality that the cinema seduced us as simple ghostly spectators. read more
Carlos A. Gutiérrez – Executive Director of Cinema Tropical
It was truly a captivating experience for me to watch Carlos Vargas’ wonderful portrayal of Phambi. The nuanced depiction offered a profound insight into the complexities of both the character and his surroundings, leaving a strong impression on me. Carlos brings a unique directorial perspective, coupled with exquisite artistry, which offers a rich and multi-dimensional narrative to engage with.
Giampiero Raganelli – Quinlan Revista de critica cinematografica
“A continuous dialogue between cinema, art, and the urban context of the capital of Mozambique.” read more.
Teresa Vena – Cineuropa
The Berlin-based Colombian director breaks down his stylish journey into the art scene of Maputo, Mozambique’s capital, and how he tackled depicting an unfamiliar culture
Hamza Ali – Always Watching
Overall, I found it to be a fascinating and experimental film, one that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. Read full review here
Alexander Lang– The Match Factory.
sensible work which offers a unique perspective on the thriving cultural life of Maputo.
Paula Rey – Berlin feminist activist
Incredible work! loved everything of it. The photography, the music, the actors…Maputo is being shown in fantastic way. It shows how women and feminist allies work together for gender equality.
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Here are a few Instagram @kopperkollektive impressions about Era Oculta – Hidden Era:
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Showcasing the challenges and triumphs of an artist navigating the unique landscape of Mozambique.
Kopperkollektive produces feature films with a strong focus on global reality. Their latest film, “Melody of Love,” directed by the award-winning filmmaker Edmundo Berjarano, was invited to have its world premiere at the renowned Tribeca Film Festival in New York. Recently, they completed the filming of “Prima Opera,” a feature directed by Colombian filmmaker Carlos Vargas, titled “Era oculta – Hidden Era,” entirely shot in Mozambique. Kopperkollektive is dedicated to bringing authentic stories to international audiences. read more
ERA OCULTA – HIDDEN ERA 