WATCH:
The latest audiovisual production from Roraima, the documentary “Paz, Queijo e Tradição” showcases stories about the work of two cheese-producing families in the state and the challenges they face amidst the expansion of livestock farming and migratory flows in Brazil’s far north. Directed by Victor Mattioni, the 17-minute film is available on YouTube.
The effort involved historical and production research, particularly through the accounts of Sebastião de Souza e Silva (“Babazinho”) from Fazenda Bacabal in Amajari, and Rosângela Gomes Rosa from Sítio Danny & Ana in Mucajaí. An interview with renowned food scientist Daniela Cunha, known for her work in food production, is also featured.
“This project also expanded our understanding of the stories surrounding traditional cheese production in the state, highlighting the potential of this product and the processes of commercialization, income generation, and the importance of knowledge, which includes studies of new technologies to preserve and expand the culture of artisan cheese in Roraima,” said Victor.
The director and historian emphasizes that the documentary aims to encourage small and medium-sized rural producers to remain steadfast in their production, as well as to pass down knowledge through oral tradition, allowing new generations to maintain traditions while also generating income for rural families.
“You will notice that each cheese production in the municipalities follows a different standard and model. This is reflected in the taste and the technologies used, stemming from traditional practices that families uphold to preserve the quality of this product. Therefore, our focus is also to value the history and culture of these families and others, promoting local trade and the economy, while considering that these products can also be exported to other states.”
Support for Culture — The documentary “Paz, Queijo e Tradição” was supported by Law 14.399/2022 from the Federal Government, which establishes the National Aldir Blanc Policy for Cultural Support (PNAB), with backing from the State Secretariat of Culture and Tourism (SECULT).
Technical Details
Direction
Images
- Luiz Cláudio Corrêa Duarte
- Márcio Dornelles Mattioni
- Victor Mattioni
Camera Assistant
Editing
- Luiz Cláudio Corrêa Duarte
Sign Language Interpreter
Interviewees
- Danielle Cunha de Souza Pereira
- Rosângela dos Santos Gomes Rosa
- Sebastião de Souza e Silva – Babazinho
Acknowledgments
- Ana Lúcia Portella
- Diego Costa
- Érika Progênio
- Fazenda Babacal
- Instituto Federal de Roraima – Campus Amajari
- Sítio Danny e Ana
- Serviço Nacional de Aprendizagem Rural – Senar
Filmed in Amajari (RR), Boa Vista (RR), and Mucajaí (RR)
Journalist- DRT/RR 335
