Revitalising the Biopic: How Nimuendajú Raises the Bar. This narrative about a fascinating character has redefined the genre, underscoring an important era and dissecting the moral dimensions of his actions. It adeptly leverages animation to handle somber themes, elevating the entire genre.

©O2 Play

What makes Nimuendajú so unique is that it breaks away from the typical biopic mould by focusing on Curt Unckel, later known as Curt Nimuendajú, an anthropologist, rather than a famed star. It explores his work studying and advocating for the indigenous people of Brazil during their progressive eradication. This ignites provocative discussions- is studying other cultures as an outsider intrinsically dehumanising? Is it appropriate to centre this story on a white man? Did Unckel’s work exploit the indigenous people?

Director Tânia Anaya, rather than brushing these questions under the carpet, invites the audience to engage with them. However, despite its merits in educational representation of history and detailing the plight of indigenous people, by 2025, we would like to see the film delve deeper into the raised questions and promote further dialogues.

We must acknowledge that history isn’t always ideal and perfection isn’t guaranteed from the prominent figureheads. Vital work can also come from unlikely sources and sometimes, we need to view through their lenses. Nevertheless, the film could make strides in providing its indigenous characters with more agency, thereby enhancing the story’s depth.

Overall, Nimuendajú portrays Unckel favourably as a champion for indigenous people, emphasizing his efforts to integrate with their culture and protect them. Whether it strikes a satisfactory balance between Unckel’s merits and his unintentional flaws will be subjective to viewers. But, it’s indisputable that the film would be further enriched if it vigorously examined this dichotomy.

The film’s art direction is undoubtedly a high point. With its glued-to-reality animated style, the characters feel incredibly authentic in the rotoscoped movie. This quality extends to their movements and facial expressions, providing an engaging viewing experience.

©O2 Play

The film’s background art is truly spectacular, particularly the parts set in the Amazon Rainforest, which is a feast for the eyes. Nimuendajú’s stunning visuals aptly encapsulate the beauty and tranquility these communities fought to preserve, adding a personal touch to the narrative.

Animated films like Nimuendajú are needed to propel discussions about colonization and indigenous cultures. Although the film does a commendable job, it bears the burden of being one of the few addressing these subjects. But, by further pushing boundaries, it undoubtedly paves the way for more nuanced explorations in the future.