(EXCLUSIVE) Interview with Carlos Coelho Costa

2024 September 3

(EXCLUSIVE) Interview with Carlos Coelho Costa

-What and who has inspired you the most in your artistic career?

My artistic journey has been deeply influenced by a combination of visual styles and thematic depth, particularly drawn from noir and neo-noir cinema, as well as socially charged films that deepen into dark atmospheres. Classic noir films like The Maltese Falcon and Sunset Boulevard have taught me the power of atmosphere and the impact of visual storytelling. The stark contrast of light and shadow, the play between what’s seen and what’s hidden, and the morally complex characters have all deeply influenced my approach. Moving into the realm of neo-noir, films like Chinatown and Blade Runner took these elements and reimagined them for a modern context, blending traditional noir with futuristic or contemporary settings. These films inspire me to explore the interplay between light and darkness, both visually and thematically, in my work. The Crow by Alex Proyas has been a significant source of inspiration. The film’s dark, gothic aesthetic, its tragic protagonist, and the themes of revenge and redemption resonate strongly with me. Proyas’ ability to create a visually compelling world that is both haunting and beautiful influences my approach to creating mood and atmosphere. The film’s use of darkness to convey emotion and its integration of music to enhance the narrative are aspects I strive to incorporate into my work. Socially conscious films that tackle dark themes have also shaped my artistic perspective. Movies like Taxi Driver and Requiem for a Dream delve into the darker aspects of society, exploring themes of alienation, addiction, and despair. These films challenge me to address social issues in my work, using a dark atmosphere not just for aesthetic purposes, but as a means to reflect the complexities and often harsh realities of the world. The ability of these films to evoke strong emotions and provoke thought is something I aspire to achieve in my own art.

-Every true artist is also a revolutionary against power. Do you think there is still room today to express one’s revolution through art?

Absolutely, there is always room to express revolution through art. In fact, art has always been one of the most powerful tools for challenging the status quo and pushing for change. In every era, artists have used their creativity and passion to question authority, address social injustices, and inspire others to think differently. Today, perhaps more than ever, the ability to express revolutionary ideas through art is crucial. With the vast array of digital platforms and global connectivity, artists have unprecedented opportunities to reach audiences and share their perspectives. Whether through visual art, music, film, or other mediums, there’s always space to creatively challenge power and advocate for a better world. Art allows us to explore complex ideas, express emotions that might be difficult to articulate in other ways, and connect with people on a deeply human level. It’s not just about being critical; it’s about envisioning new possibilities, sparking dialogue, and inspiring action. Being passionate about what we do is key. When we pour our energy and creativity into our work, it has the power to resonate with others and become a catalyst for change. In short, the revolutionary spirit in art is timeless. No matter the era, as long as there are issues to address and voices to be heard, there will always be room for artists to express their revolution.

-We live in a world where, unfortunately, war still exists. Do you believe that if there were more dissemination of art through the media and social networks, the world would be a more peaceful place?

I do believe that a greater dissemination of art through the media and social networks could contribute to making the world a more peaceful place. War often stems from misunderstandings, a lack of empathy, and a focus on self-interest over the well-being of others. Art has the unique ability to break down these barriers by fostering connection, understanding, and respect among people. Art allows us to see the world through different perspectives, to feel the emotions and experiences of others, and to recognize our shared humanity. When people engage with art, they are often moved to think beyond their own interests and consider the broader impact of their actions on others. This can lead to a greater sense of empathy and a deeper commitment to peace. Moreover, art can challenge the narratives that justify violence and conflict. It can expose the horrors of war, highlight the value of peace, and inspire people to imagine a world where conflict is resolved through dialogue and cooperation rather than violence. By spreading these messages through the media and social networks, art has the potential to reach a wide audience and influence public opinion. While art alone cannot eliminate war, it can play a significant role in promoting the values of empathy, respect, and understanding that are essential for a peaceful world. If more people were exposed to art and engaged with its messages, I believe we would see a shift towards a more compassionate and peaceful society.

-Are you working on a new project? If so, can you give us a sneak peek?

Yes, I am currently working on several projects, and while I can’t reveal much about some of them just yet, I’m excited to share a bit about one in particular. I’m directing a feature film titled All Rise, which is going to be shot in America. This project is very close to my heart, and it’s shaping up to be something truly special. While I can’t go into too many details at the moment, I can say that All Rise is a film with powerful themes and a compelling narrative that I believe will resonate with audiences. I’m looking forward to bringing this story to life and sharing more as the project progresses!