João Carlos Gandra da Silva Martins is one of the most famous and acclaimed pianists and conductors of classical music in the world. He was born in 1940 in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and he’s known especially for his interpretations of Bach. He’s a huge name of perseverance because even with all the health problems he got, he didn’t give up and always tried to keep doing what he loved. Therefore, Mauro Lima, a filmmaker, decided to make the film “João, o maestro”. Mauro is a specialist in biographies and he’s very successful in these types of production. It drew a lot of attention of the viewers for being so different from most other biographies, which were more basic.
The movie premiered in 2017 and had a great repercussion with an average of 4,2 stars. In this movie he’s interpreted in his adulthood by Alexandre Nero. The most important moments in Joao’s life and all of his trajectory of overcoming and perseverance are shown. It’s focused in his learning process, his talent since very little and how he became a conductor after all his problems.
by Lívia Sakata
REVIEW: João, the maestro
5
It is really a great movie and it motivates people to continue with their dreams because after seeing his story we start believing that it’s possible to reach them. It’s extremely recommended for those who really enjoy classical music, who is starting to play the piano or who is 70 years old and could only see his performances in black and white.
It is worth it and it’s an amazing opportunity to learn about culture and teach the new generation about art. It’s appreciable that such a wonderful musician comes from Brazil. He was an artist that makes the entire nation proud. Out of 5, I give 4,5 stars because I just loved it.
OVERALL RATING: **** and a half
Artwork by: Lívia Sakata