News and Events

FTT Talks Presents

We In Cinema (Nós do Cinema)

Friday, October 5, 2007, at 7:00 pm, Browning Cinema, DeBartolo Performing Arts Center.

wecinema.jpgThis is a FREE but ticketed event. Call the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center Ticket Office at 574.631.2800 to reserve tickets.

We In Cinema, based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a media arts-based organization that serves disadvantaged youth. As part of its mission, it sponsors an international speaking tour to break down cultural barriers and create awareness. These educational presentations utilize film to provoke critical thought and stimulate conversation on a wide range of social issues, between groups normally isolated from one another. We In Cinema’s cofounder, Luis Nascimento, and educator/actor, Leandor Firmino, will be present and show film excerpts.

Presented by the Browning Cinema, DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, Department of Film, Television, and Theatre, and University of Notre Dame Worldview Film Series.

Luis Nascimento - Since his appearance in the film City of God as a member of Ze Pequeno's gang, Luis Nascimento has written, and directed a number of award winning shorts and documentaries with social themes. As a founding member and Executive Coordinator of We In Cinema, he manages the direction of the school and guides the development of potential services. He also established NdC Productions as a means of generating work opportunities for the students as well as income. Traveling nationally and internationally, he speaks on Brazilian social movements, the formation of favelas communities, and representation in TV and film.

Leandro Firmino - Best known for his Oscar nominated, startling portrayal as Ze Pequeno in the film City of God, Leandro Firmino is a founding member of the ONG Nós do Cinema. In addition to work in Brazilian theater, his acting credits include starring and supporting roles in films such as Cafundo, Palace II, as well as the television program A Diarista and sitcom Mano a Mano. Aside from a career as a working actor, Leandro maintains direct involvement with We In Cinema and also serves as an educator to its growing number of students. He travels extensively speaking about Afro-Brazilians in cinema, and mass media as a means of expression.