Mahaleo

In Malagasy, “Mahaleo” means free, independent.

Mahaleo’s voices and music have accompanied the people of Madagascar ever since the collapse of the colonial regime. Yet, even after 30 years of success, the group’s seven musicians still keep their distance from the world of show-business, and remain deeply committed to helping their country’s development; their professions range from surgeon to farmer, physician to sociologist and member of parliament. Accompanied by the group’s rhythmic melodies, the film follows the singers through their daily lives, giving us a glimpse of the far-reaching social and economic problems of the Malagasy people. The combined talents of the Brazilian, Cesar Paes, and the Malagasy, Raymond Rajaonarivelo, have produced a work that is both ethereal and concrete, poetic and political.

Region of Origin

Year of Release

2005

Duration

102 minutes

Format

35mm, Color

Directors

Cesar Paes Thumbnail

Cesar Paes

Cesar Paes – writer, director and cinematographer, born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Lives in Paris.
2005 MAHALEO
2000 SAUDADE DO FUTURO
1993 HAITI: UN TEMPS MIS EN CONSERVE
1992 SONGS AND TEARS OF NATURE
1989 ANGANO…ANGANO…TALES FROM MADAGASCAR