1:36min
We see Russo and another, spinning and lunging towards each other as if in mock fight. This is Capoeira. “Russo is known as ‘O Zelador’, which translates as ‘The Caretaker’,” Carlo explains. “He is the custodian of Capoeira, which came from Africa, started as a dance and became a form of self-defence.”

3:44min
Pigs and dogs go through the rubbish off the main street of Baixada, Russo’s home town. “This is where the authorities recruit the death squads,” Paul informs us. “It is one of the poorest, most forgotten places in Brazil.”

12:19min
A gang of kids train in Russo’s backyard. “Some of these are orphans and homeless,” says Jorge. “Russo trains, houses and feeds them, which basically saves their lives.”

13:14min
Urso, Russo’s pupil, spins around on his hands. “Capoeira was the inspiration for breakdancing,” says Carlo. “In the Seventies a Brazilian called Jelon went to New York and started doing it in the street and it caught on.”

27:41min
We see a Candomblé religious ceremony. It is an animistic cult that many compare to Voodoo. “This is the religion of the African slaves that was outlawed and went underground,” notes Carlo.

30:33min
The voiceover explains that Brazil was colonised by the Portuguese and built by African slaves. “Today, Brazil is mainly known for its Afro-Brazilian culture and not its Portuguese traditions. Culturally speaking, the dominated now dominate,” says Vittoria.

36:08min
Russo explains how he had to defend the honour of his neighbourhood by fighting another capoeirista. In doing so he was stabbed just below his heart. “People can use Capoeira to fight, but sometimes a knife might appear,” Jorge notes. “When I started I caught a man pickpocketing my boyfriend and kicked his legs out from under him with a foot sweep,” chuckles Vittoria. “My boyfriend was very impressed.”

76:32min
Still performing, the fiftysomething Russo receives an award for his work. “I am now 55 and I took it up in my late forties,” says Greg, a classical actor. “It is the most rewarding exercise I’ve ever done, both spiritually and emotionally.”

Verdict

All were impressed by the film. “It links the story of Brazil with the history of Capoeira while telling the story of this very humble man who does so much good for no financial gain,” Jorge says. “The whole world can learn from this film.”

O Zelador is out to buy on DVD. Thanks to the Arcola Theatre (www.arcola theatre.com)

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