Margarida Cardoso: Reflections on History, Cinema and Social Justice

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Margarida Cardoso, lecturer at Lusófona University, is known for her sensitive and profound approach to historical and cultural themes. Creator of the award-winning film Banzo, winner of the Tree of Life Award at IndieLisboa 2024, the filmmaker reflects on colonial memories and their contemporary repercussions. Besides her career in cinema, she also collaborates with the DocNomads programme at Lusófona University, inspiring future generations of filmmakers.

During the interview, Margarida Cardoso shared her motivation for creating Banzo, a film that portrays the nostalgia and traumas linked to slavery and colonialism. According to her, the metaphor of "zombies and spectres" was used to illustrate the psychological effects of Banzo, revealing literary influences such as the British writer Joseph Conrad.

Regarding the impact she wishes to have on the audience, the importance of a critical view of the past and a more open dialogue about colonial memories is emphasised. She also reflected on how her experience as a lecturer in the DocNomads programme influenced her approach to creating the film, highlighting the diversity of perspectives as an enriching element.

The Tree of Life Award recognises works with spiritual and humanistic qualities and has been a significant milestone for Banzo. For Margarida Cardoso, this distinction validates the film’s commitment to a sensitive and reflective approach to the theme.

Finally, the filmmaker left an important message for the students of Lusófona University: "Cinema has the power to transform consciousness. For those who wish to stand out in the market, it is essential to have the courage to tell relevant stories and delve into the complexities of our history", she concluded.

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Ana Azevedo and Rui Simões

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