Drawing inspiration from the book ‘Álvaro Cunhal: Retrato Pessoal e Íntimo’ by Adelino Cunha, published in 2010, the film ‘Camarada Cunhal’ by Sérgio Graciano recounts one of the most remarkable episodes in the life of Álvaro Cunhal.
In 1960, the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) politician and other militants managed to escape from the Fortress of Peniche, which had been converted into a high-security prison by the Estado Novo regime. The escape, facilitated by a PIDE agent, is depicted in Graciano’s film, which also explores the violence of the Salazarist regime and the strategies used by prisoners to communicate within and outside the prison walls.
Romeu Vala, playing the role of this opposition figure to the Estado Novo, shared insights with Notícias ao Minuto on his preparation for portraying the politician, while also commenting on the current political landscape, including that of the PCP.
Other notable cast members include António Mortágua, Tiago Teotónio Pereira, Luís Lobão, Filipa Nascimento, Frederico Barata, Gonçalo Neto Arroja, Tobias Monteiro, Guilherme Moura, and Helena Caldeira.
Vala notes that while the film offers considerable insight into Álvaro Cunhal’s persona, a series soon to be released on RTP, titled ‘Homens de Honra’, promises a more comprehensive view of Cunhal’s life and struggles.
‘Camarada Cunhal’ had its on April 14 at UCI El Corte Inglés cinema in Lisbon and is set for theatrical release on Thursday, April 24, on the eve of the Carnation Revolution celebrations and in the year marking the tenth anniversary of Álvaro Cunhal’s passing.
I understand you were already familiar with the significance of Álvaro Cunhal’s life, especially regarding his opposition to the Estado Novo. How did you approach your research to develop this character?
I was definitely aware of Álvaro Cunhal’s figure, embedded in my memory. At 36, I still vividly remember him alive, not just due to his presence but also due to his historical significance in our democracy. However, while constructing the character, I noticed a lack of archival footage from the era when Cunhal was my character’s age. The Estado Novo regime was keen on suppressing information about such figures. While some later images exist, they pertain to a period in Cunhal’s life that didn’t align with my portrayal. Therefore, I relied heavily on reading materials, including Adelino Cunha’s biography, which the film draws from, to delve into his universe. I focused on his obvious traits—his strength, tenacity, and lifelong struggle—while infusing my personal nuances to create a distinct character.
Today’s politicians need to harness memory to remember figures who did so much for our country and its people
With a deeper understanding of Álvaro Cunhal, how do you think he would perceive the current state of the PCP, amid speculation it might lose its legislative presence?
If Cunhal witnessed today’s political scenario in Portugal, I believe he would be deeply saddened by the prevailing conditions. Regarding the Communist Party in particular, his tenacity might have incited a significant change in both the party and the country, potentially altering how people perceive the PCP.
Regardless of ideological perspectives, one can’t deny the integrity of politicians from Cunhal’s era, particularly him, which stands in stark contrast to the contemporary political environment. Today’s politicians need to harness memory to remember figures who did so much for our country and its people, sometimes at great personal cost, even sacrificing their liberty for the freedom of others. Modern-day politicians should take inspiration from individuals who have contributed immensely to our democratic heritage.
It offers younger audiences a thorough understanding of Álvaro Cunhal’s role and fight. However, the film specifically focuses on the prison escape
Can the film provide younger viewers, who might not know much about Álvaro Cunhal, a clear understanding of his importance to democracy?
The film largely captures the period from 1956 to January 1960, highlighting Cunhal’s detention and subsequent imprisonment in Peniche. The narrative is centered around the meticulous plan for his escape with over nine comrades. It offers younger audiences a thorough understanding of Álvaro Cunhal’s role and fight. However, the film specifically focuses on the prison escape, imbued with tension due to the fear of recapture, along with the communication tricks employed within the prison.
An upcoming RTP series, ‘Homens de Honra,’ will offer a comprehensive portrayal of Álvaro Cunhal’s entire life and struggles
Does the film alone suffice in highlighting the escape’s significance?
The film does provide insight, but it’s followed by an RTP series, ‘Homens de Honra,’ which will chronicle the entirety of Álvaro Cunhal’s life and battles. This series, unlike the film, will give audiences a richer understanding of Cunhal’s enduring fight for freedom over many decades. Emerging from this cinematic experience, viewers, particularly younger ones unfamiliar with Cunhal, are sure to glean a clearer grasp of his strength and dedication to democracy.
Turning to populism and radicalism isn’t a viable solution; history teaches us these paths always lead to failure
Considering cinema’s influence, especially with the global rise of far-right movements, do we need more politically charged films to provoke discourse?
Absolutely, without a doubt. Art holds the duty to inform. At times when there is a lack of social awareness or consciousness, it’s crucial to revisit and raise awareness of the dangers we face from rising radicalism and populism, stemming from party weaknesses. Without delving too deep into political discourse, these are consequences of numerous past mistakes. Turning to populism and radicalism isn’t a viable solution; history teaches us these paths always lead to failure.
[embedded content]
