The documentary “Not All Is Peace and Love”, directed by Betão Aguiar, presents an emotional and reflective journey about childhood and the cultural heritage of the children of the 1970s counterculture in Brazil. With participations from names like Moreno Veloso, Nara Gil, Sarah Sheeva, Beto Lee, and Anelis Assumpção, the film delves into the memories and family dynamics of these personalities, exploring how the freedom, psychedelia, and artistic effervescence of the time influenced their lives. Betão Aguiar, who is the son of writer and producer Marília Aguiar and Paulinho Boca de Cantor, one of the fundamental pillars of the group Novos Baianos, brings a personal and intimate perspective, revisiting extraordinary episodes and traumas that marked his childhood and that of his interviewees. The film is an open conversation that helps to tell the story of a generation that grew up in the context of the counterculture and its artistic and behavioral revolutions.
The documentary presents a diverse and talented cast, with participations from artists who intensely experienced the counterculture of the 1970s. Moreno Veloso, son of Caetano Veloso, and Nara Gil, daughter of Gilberto Gil, share their experiences and perceptions about growing up in an environment of freedom and creativity. Sarah Sheeva, Beto Lee, and Anelis Assumpção also contribute with their stories and reflections, creating a rich and complex fabric of narratives that explore the nuances of the counterculture and its legacy. Betão Aguiar’s direction is sensitive and respectful, allowing the interviewees to express themselves authentically and emotionally, without fear of sharing their traumas and marvels. The film also highlights the importance of music and irony as antidotes against historical nostalgia, creating a light and human tone that facilitates the audience’s connection with the stories told.
The realization of the documentary was made possible through the partnership between Casa Redonda and Zapipa Produções, with resources coming from Ancine via FSA and BRDE. The original idea for the film is from Jasmin Pinho, a childhood friend of Betão Aguiar, who passed away in 2020. The documentary is part of the Mostra B, a platform that values diversity and cinematographic creativity. With its unique and personal approach, “Not All Is Peace and Love” is a film that invites the audience to reflect on the counterculture and its impact on the lives of those who experienced it, as well as on the importance of preserving the memory and history of a generation that changed Brazil. The film is a significant contribution to the understanding of Brazilian culture and its development over the years, and can be appreciated by all those interested in the music, art, and history of the country.
The main value of the documentary “Not All Is Peace and Love” lies in its ability to create an emotional and reflective connection between the audience and the stories told, allowing people to be touched by the beauty and complexity of the 1970s counterculture. The film is a living testament to the creativity and resistance of a generation that fought for freedom and autonomy, and that continues to inspire and influence contemporary Brazilian culture. With his sensitive and respectful approach, Betão Aguiar creates a space for stories to be shared and preserved, allowing the audience to learn and be inspired by the courage and creativity of the people who lived during that time.
