In the early 1950s, the Villas Boas brothers participated in the Roncador-Xingu expedition to document, chart, and ultimately conquer territory and the communities in the western part of the Amazon as part of the Brazilian government's goal of integrating all living in the boundaries of the nation. This expedition served as the first contact between indigenous communities and Western civilization. Documenting this expedition was photographer Henri Ballot.
In The Second Encounter: Brazil Amazonia, Henri Ballot’s daughter, Veronique, returns to this region to reconnect with the people of the Kayapo nation to understand how the first encounter with those on the Roncador-Xingu expedition has impacted their lives, culture, and society. A second thread within this film is the examination of the life and impact that Henri Ballot had on Brazilian culture through his work documenting indigenous populations at a time in the country’s history when there was a fascination with these communities.
Through a mixture of archival footage, photographs, and interviews, Veronique Ballot is able to provide the history and context for the Roncador-Xingu expedition for those unfamiliar with the first encounter but also explores how the Kayapo people feel about the experience looking back at it through the lens of 70 years. It is clear the encroachment into this territory has had a negative impact on this community in many ways. This film highlights the importance of ensuring those who want to continue with this traditional way of life are not adversely affected by the desire for more land from the timber, agricultural, and mining industries.
It is often difficult to try and weave too much into a film; however, The Second Encounter: Brazil Amazonia is able to document the experience of the Kayapo people but also celebrates the life of Henri Ballot. This film is essential for all anthropology or film collections supporting the study of Brazil and the Amazon and is recommended for any general collection. Recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P.