Hello everyone, and welcome back to Always Watching. Today, I’m continuing my coverage of the Tribeca Film Festival with the intriguing film “Era Oculta,” or “Hidden Era,” directed by Carlos Vargas.
The film centers on Rastafari artist Phambi, who is struggling to secure funds for his son’s education. Phambi’s journey is a profound exploration of the challenges of being an artist, a man, and a father in a society that often sees these roles as incompatible. To dive deeper into the film, don’t miss my interview with Carlos in the description box below.
“Era Oculta” is a film that will either leave you lost or completely engaged—you really need to let it work its magic on you. Turn off your phone, silence your notifications, and immerse yourself fully.
We first meet Phambi as he paints semi-nude portraits of his muses. At the start, his art feels superficial, focused solely on physical characteristics. However, as the film progresses, his paintings evolve, symbolizing his growth and changing perspectives. Each piece represents a new stage in his journey, reflecting how he begins to see the world through different eyes.
Alongside Phambi, we follow two young women, Ednora and Paula, as they navigate their own struggles to find their place in the world. It’s intriguing that they are models, valued for their physical appearance. Although this isn’t explicitly a feminist film, it incorporates feminist ideology to highlight how societal concepts of masculinity and femininity can be restrictive for both men and women. The film subtly connects these personal battles with broader themes of corruption and the fight for equality.
One of the film’s key discussions revolves around aesthetics and the essence of art. There’s a distinct difference between how something looks and how it feels. Initially, Phambi’s art, though visually appealing, feels empty because he views his muses as mere objects. However, as he interacts more with Paola and Ednora, his confidence grows, and he starts to see them as collaborators, not just subjects. This shift transforms his approach to art, making it more meaningful.
Phambi’s struggle is largely internal, as he grapples with the value of his art. His perseverance, driven by his love for his son, is inspiring. Despite their financial struggles, Phambi creates a nurturing environment for his son, filled with hope and creativity. We see glimpses of their bond through the beautiful paintings in his son’s room, showcasing that dreams can flourish even in adversity.
“Era Oculta” is a subtle, well-crafted, and thoughtful film. It’s one that requires your full attention, as it delicately weaves together themes of art and politics, and the dynamics of masculinity and femininity, through its characters and their artistic expressions.
Overall, I found it to be a fascinating and experimental film, one that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll.
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ERA OCULTA – HIDDEN ERA 