Álvaro Lapa: A Literatura

When he was 16-years-old, a young man was so impressed by the paintings of an obscure painter, that he did his best to get acquainted with him, as an artist, and a painter. Eventually, the artist started writing, and impressing the cultural world of his country to the point he became an established artistic name, and a college teacher. So, too, did that young man grow to be a theater and film writer, producer, and director.

Directed by Jorge Silva Melo, Álvaro Lapa: A Literatura leans on a strong ensemble — Álvaro Lapa, Jorge Silva Melo — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2008.