Marcelo Gomes’ ‘Creatures of the Mind’ Acquired by Utopia Docs
“Creatures of the Mind”: Exploring the Mysteries of Dreaming with Marcelo Gomes
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Brazilian filmmaker Marcelo Gomes’ latest documentary, “Creatures of the Mind,” is captivating audiences and sparking conversations about the global human experience of dreaming. Following a successful run in Brazilian theaters – exceeding 10,000 tickets sold after 14 weeks - and its international premiere at Sheffield DocFest, the film delves into the anthropological and scientific landscapes of our subconscious.
A Journey into the World of Dreams
During the pandemic,Gomes found himself experiencing a startling phenomenon: he stopped dreaming. This personal experience became the catalyst for “Creatures of the Mind,” a cinematic exploration undertaken with renowned brazilian neuroscientist Sidarta ribeiro. Together, they embark on a fascinating journey to understand why we dream, what our dreams meen, and how different cultures interpret these nightly voyages.
The film isn’t simply a scientific investigation. It beautifully weaves together neuroscience with anthropology, folklore, and spiritual beliefs. Gomes explores the psychological concept of “Creatures of the Mind,” examining how societies throughout history have understood the unconscious, the power of symbols, trance states, and the rich tapestry of folklore.You’ll encounter compelling figures along the way, including a medium in Pernambuco, Brazil, offering a glimpse into the world of spirit dialog, and the insightful Indigenous thinker Ailton Krenak, who provides a unique perspective on the connection between dreams, land, and ancestry.
Why Dreams Matter: A Vital Connection to Ourselves and Our Heritage
“Dreams are one of the biggest mysteries humanity is trying to figure out,” says renato Manganello, CEO of Utopia Docs, the film’s distributor. “A key to self-knowledge, they play a vital role in our mental health and in many cultures is a spiritual connection between people, the land and the ancestors.”
This sentiment underscores the film’s central message: dreams aren’t just random firings of neurons. They are a fundamental part of what makes us human, offering a window into our deepest fears, desires, and connections to the world around us. “Creatures of the Mind” encourages us to pay attention to our dreams, to explore their meaning, and to recognize their importance in our lives.
The Filmmaker Behind the Vision
Marcelo Gomes is no stranger to critical acclaim.His debut feature, “cinema, Aspirins and Vultures,” earned recognition in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard section. He continued to impress with “I Travel As I Have To,” which premiered in venice, and “Portrait of a Certain Orient,” showcased at Rotterdam. His previous documentary, “Waiting for the Carnival,” debuted at the Berlinale.With each film,Gomes demonstrates a remarkable ability to blend artistic vision with insightful social commentary. “Creatures of the Mind” is a testament to his talent,offering a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of a topic that resonates with us all.
Production Details
“Creatures of the Mind” is a production of Video Filmes, the company behind the critically acclaimed “I’m Still here.” it’s a co-production with Globo Filmes and GloboNews, and is associated with Carnaval Filmes.The film is brought to life by Producers Maria Carlota Bruno and João Moreira Salles (Videfilmes),with Executive Producers Camila Leal Ferreira (Videfilmes),João Junior,and nara Aragão (Carnaval Filmes).