"Aquele Querido Mês de Agosto" (2008), directed by Miguel Gomes, offers a unique glimpse into rural Portuguese life during the vibrant month of August. This film stands out for its unconventional approach, as it blends documentary and fiction in a way that captures the essence of a small village's social fabric.
The film's premise is as intriguing as its execution. Initially conceived with a traditional script, financial and logistical challenges led Gomes and his team to pivot. Instead of following a scripted narrative, they immersed themselves in the village, filming the everyday lives of its inhabitants, capturing the essence of local festivals, and eventually crafting a story around the footage they collected.
The movie is split into two distinct yet interconnected parts: the documentary-style depiction of real events and the fictional storyline that emerges from these realities. In the first part, the film introduces us to the villagers, who share their personal stories and traditions. The second part transitions into a fictional tale centered on Helder, a young man reluctant to leave the village because of his love for his cousin, all while being part of the music band "Estrelas do Alva."
The film's meta-narrative is particularly compelling. It begins with Gomes confidently presenting his unfinished project and concludes with a candid exchange between him and the sound director, Vasco Pimentel. This conversation highlights Gomes' doubts about the authenticity of the recorded sounds, contrasting with Pimentel's defense of the film's technical integrity, adding a layer of introspection about the nature of filmmaking itself.
"Aquele Querido Mês de Agosto" is not a film for everyone, but it is a must-watch for those who appreciate cinema verité. Its blend of reality and fiction, with non-actors portraying themselves, offers a refreshing departure from mainstream cinema. Gomes' work is a testament to the richness of everyday life and the stories that emerge when we look closely.
