Filmmaker and critic David Neves is one of the most respected and influential voices in the development and international expansion of the Brazilian cinema. Neves' films include documentaries on writers and filmmakers, as well as three features: Memory of Helen (1969), It's Nice to Meet You (1978), and Luz del Fuego (1982) (see March 3). His presentation tonight provides an unusual opportunity to view his first feature in the context of the history of the Cinema Novo movement, which Neves will discuss with clips from several influential Cinema Novo works.
“Memory of Helen is primarily an exploration of one woman's mind through the use of home movies, diaries, and personal recall by two friends. Helen is a character full of fascinating complexities, partially liberated, partially the victim of romantic innocence. The film, extraordinarily beautiful, is also the story of a profound friendship between two women, reminiscent of Bergman's Persona....” --Steve Mamber, Filmex '71