Twenty Years Later (1984): Plot, Cast & Rating

Name: Twenty Years Later
Director: Eduardo Coutinho
Genre: Documentary, History
Released: 1984
Duration: 119 min
Cast: Eduardo Coutinho, Elizabeth Teixeira, Ferreira Gullar, Tite de Lemos, Eduardo Escorel

What Twenty Years Later Is About

In Brazil in 1964 a director begins a film about João Pedro Teixeira, a peasant leader killed shortly before, and the league of agricultural workers he founded. Real peasants play the parts, with Teixeira's widow Elizabeth playing herself. While the shooting is under way the military coup takes place. The crew is broken up, the material is seized and the film is left unfinished. Seventeen years pass. The director goes back and looks for those people. Eduardo Coutinho directs. The structure joins the two times: the staged scenes shot in 1964 and the interviews recorded after 1981 are set side by side. Elizabeth Teixeira had to go into hiding after the coup, changed her name and lived for years in the north under another identity, unable to see most of her children. Her account is at the centre. The narrative is both a documentary and a record of its own making; how filmmaking was prevented is treated directly. It was released in Brazil in the years when the military regime was ending and became the most discussed documentary of the period. Coutinho went on to become the central figure of Brazilian documentary, and his method is established here: people talking to camera and a director who does not intervene. Who it is for: anyone interested in political documentary and the history of Latin America. Who it is not for: the pace is slow, the material is worn, and some passages stay closed without the context.

How did this film move you?

Trailer

▶

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Twenty Years Later about?

In Brazil in 1964 a director begins a film about João Pedro Teixeira, a peasant leader killed shortly before, and the league of agricultural workers he founded. Real peasants play the parts, with Teixeira's widow Elizabeth playing herself.

Where can I watch Twenty Years Later?

Twenty Years Later isn't currently listed on major digital platforms. Availability can change over time. Check the "Where to Watch" section for the latest.

How long is Twenty Years Later?

Twenty Years Later runs for 119 minutes (1h 59m).

When did Twenty Years Later come out?

Twenty Years Later was released in 1984.

Who directed Twenty Years Later?

Twenty Years Later was directed by Eduardo Coutinho.

Who stars in Twenty Years Later?

Twenty Years Later stars Eduardo Coutinho, Elizabeth Teixeira, Ferreira Gullar, Tite de Lemos.

What is Twenty Years Later's rating?

Twenty Years Later holds 8.3/10 on IMDb and 8.4/10 on TMDB. Its Pulse Score is 80 out of 100.