Christian dimensions of light in Quando eu era vivo (2014)

christian strategies and meanings of light and darkness in latin american horror cinema

Abstract

In this article, we investigate the possible Christian dimensions of light and shadow that permeate the audiovisual cinematography of the feature film When I Was Alive (2014), by Brazilian director Marco Dutra. Through a comparative procedure, we compare the film's direction of photography with different Christian practices of light prior to the 18th century. Based on this, we argue that the film's luminous construction echoes certain meanings, values, and strategies of light and shadow linked to the Christian religion. Specifically, we seek to understand how the theological concept of economy, as studied by Giorgio Agamben and Marie-José Mondzain, can contribute to illuminating the understanding of some emotional strategies that mobilize light and are present in the different objects studied. Although we do not wish, in any way, to generalize the results of our study, we aim, based on it, not only to stress how audiovisual photography fits into a broader imaginary production — from which it becomes inseparable — but also to denaturalize the possible meanings, values ​​or power relations conveyed, stimulated or established through certain audiovisual lighting practices.