
"Captain" Virgulino Ferreira da Silva (June 7, 1897 – July 28, 1938), better known as Lampião (meaning "lantern" or "oil lamp"), was probably the most successful traditional Brazilian bandit leader of the 20th century. The banditry endemic to the Northeast of Brazil was called Cangaço. Cangaço had origins in the late 19th century but was particularly prevalent in the 1920s and 1930s. Lampião led a...
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Inspired by the book "Os homens que mataram o facínora: A história dos grandes inimigos de Lampião" by journalist, historian, and screenwriter Moacir Assunção, the film tells the story of the Nazarenos, residents of the Nazaré do Pico neighborhood in Floresta, Pernambuco. They faced off against Lampião, the Coluna Prestes, and the Pernambuco police in the early decades of the 20th century.

This documentary tells the story of traveling salesman Benjamin Abrahão Calil Botto. He followed a trail of horror into the Sertão to find the fearsome King of Cangaço. The band invaded cities, looted, castrated men, branded women with iron, raped and killed. When he was face to face with the bandit, he drew his weapon: a film camera. This video recounts the confrontation that marked the history of documentary in Brazil, with impressive images of Cangaço

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Scenes from the daily life of Virgulino Ferreira da Silva—the cangaceiro leader Lampião—and his group, captured by cinematographer Benjamin Abrahão. Their survival strategies in the sertão landscape, their gestures, habits, clothing, and diet are illustrated. Proud of their status, the group's main members are shown displaying their weapons and combat skills in the caatinga. Maria Bonita and Lampião appear in moments of tension and relaxation, highlighting the harmony of the band and, above all, the rigors of life as a cangaceiro. (Cinemateca Brasileira)
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