Details

Subject(s)

• Spiritualism [Browse]
• Umbanda (Cult) [Browse]
• Brazil—Religious life and customs [Browse]

Director

• Richeport-Haley, Madeleine [Browse]

Producer

• Richeport-Haley, Madeleine [Browse]

Library of Congress genre(s)

• Documentary films [Browse]

Series

Academic Video Online

Summary note

In today's stressful world, millions of people turn to spiritism for help. This film shows the roots and beliefs of Afrospirit religions as practiced by the privileged rich as well as the illiterate poor. Although shot principally in Rio de Janeiro, these sects are flourishing in the United States as well. Spiritism is based on the belief that man can communicate with the supernatural world through mediums who act as intermediaries. Grouped commonly under the word 'voodoo' or 'macumba,' these forbidden sects were the targets of police raids. Now some of the techniques of trance healing are used by the medical profession to help individuals achieve personal and social equilibrium. In this film a doctor is seen treating schizophrenics, epileptics and drug addicts with spiritist techniques.

Notes

Title from resource description page (viewed June 10, 2015).

Awards

Margaret Mead Film Festival, 1985

Language note

• In English.
• Original language in English.

Other title(s)

Macumba

OCLC

796024287

Statement on language in description

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