A film by Madeleine Richeport
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.
Margaret Mead Film Festival, 1985
43 min. Video or DVD. Sale $295. Video rentals $65
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