DIE MARTINS-PASSION

This film is about the amazing life of Brazilian star pianist João Carlos Martins. His long career has been marked by tremendous successes and demoralizing tragedies. In the early sixties, Martins, who played soccer as passionately as he played the piano, was celebrated one of his generation's finest interpreters of Bach's music.

At the height of his early fame, a disastrous injury threatened to end his career. For decades, comebacks alternated with setbacks. His career seemed doomed to failure when he had he had to undergo surgery to sever the nerves of his right hand. But in the late nineties Martins attempted a comeback with his left hand only. Learning some of finest repertory for the left hand, he set a comeback date with a renowned orchestra. At the same time disaster struck again, when a tumour was discovered on his left hand.

This documentary accompanies João Carlos Martins during his darkest hours, tracing the early triumphs and dramatic events of his life. Unique film sequences from his childhood and early years enrich the story. Conversations with his friends, soccer genius Pelé and legendary jazz pianist Dave Brubeck provide moments of bliss. And in the end, a small miracle occurs.

Martins’ Passion is a film about a man who refuses to give up and remains true to his passion – music.

Gold Prize (FIPA D'OR in section MUSIQUE ET SPECTACLE) at the 17th Festival International de Programmes Audiovisuels in Biarritz, France