Balomania
Director
Runtime
93 Minutes
Country
Denmark, Spain
Classification
Unclassified 15+
What do Pavarotti, Jesus, and Rocky have in common? They all grace the vibrant balloons released in Brazil’s captivating yet little-known ‘balloon world’. This subculture, filled with passion and artistry, comes to life in filmmaker Sissel Morell Dargis's mesmerising documentary.
Danish filmmaker Dargis was eager to immerse herself in a unique aspect of Brazilian culture. Upon hearing about this elusive community, she navigated the challenges of gaining their trust, especially as a woman. Her persistence paid off, and soon, key figures like Jaba, Zulu, Sergio, and Playboy opened up to her, revealing their lives and passions.
Despite hostility from the police, these dedicated ‘baloeiros’ are unwavering in their mission to release their breathtaking art into the skies. Dargis’s film captures this tension, blending the excitement of a thriller with deeply personal stories. This celebratory film showcases the awe-inspiring moments when balloons are released.
“[A] thrilling account of the ultimate in high-stakes outsider art.”
Screen International
“Years of camaraderie, gaining trust and filming have gone into making this gem of a film, and it all pays off: Balomania is both thrilling — with car chases and clandestine meetings — and incredibly tender in conveying the men’s affection for a grand hobby which only costs them money and brings them none.”
Cineuropa
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Film Credits
Director
Sissel Morell Dargis
Year
2024
Country
Denmark & Spain
Language
Portuguese
Subtitles
English
Type
Documentary & Feature
Program Strand
World Documentary
Producer
Jesper Jack, Marie Schmidt Olesen & Sissel Morell Dargis
Cinematographer
Sissel Morell Dargis
Editor
Biel Andrés, Rikke Selin ALS, Isabela Monteiro de Castro, Steen Johannessen & Sissel Morell Dargis
Music
Aquiles Ghirelli & O Novissimo Edgar
Film Source
Cargo Film & Releasing
Genre
Art, Crime & Documentary
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