Numerous videos of Capoeira Angola capture its vibrant culture, history, and unique techniques. Each clip highlights the blend of music, movement, and community, showcasing intricate footwork and acrobatics set to the rhythms of traditional instruments like the berimbau. Performers in white attire exemplify the spirit of Capoeira, creating a celebration of unity and resistance. These recordings also reveal various styles and include insights from masters and practitioners, enhancing the understanding of this Brazilian heritage.
In Today’s installment, we examine Body Games Capoeira and Ancestry, A Film by Richard Pakleppa, Matthias Röhrig Assunção and Mestre Cobra Mansa.
Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art that blends dance, combat, theatre, and music, with its origins documented among enslaved Africans in Brazilian port cities, reflecting a rich cultural tapestry created under the duress of oppression. It is unique as the only world-practiced martial art with African heritage, intricately linked to the Angolan game engolo, which serves not only as a physical expression but also as a profound cultural narrative.
The documentary film Jogo de Corpo/Body Games follows capoeira master Cobra Mansa and his friends as they explore the historical connections between their art, slavery, and identity, weaving together personal stories that highlight their struggles and triumphs. Through interviews and narratives, the documentary features capoeira masters and engolo players on both sides of the Atlantic, emphasizing the significance of cultural preservation and the resilience of those who practice these arts, as they navigate their identities in a modern world where their heritage is often at risk of being forgotten. In a poignant manner, the film delves into the rich traditions of capoeira, illustrating how this unique martial art form evolved from the oppressive realities of slavery into a vibrant expression of freedom, community, and creativity. As Cobra Mansa and his companions share their experiences, viewers are invited to witness the powerful synergies between movement, music, and memory, making a compelling case for why preserving these cultural legacies is crucial in today’s rapidly changing society. Furthermore, the film sparks discussions about the importance of embracing one’s roots, fostering a deeper understanding of how art can serve as a vehicle for social change, healing, and unity in the face of adversity, ultimately showcasing the indelible link between cultural identity and the human experience.
And this is my favorite video of him, where he shows us all how he earned his nicknames Cobra Mansa – “tamed snake” and Cobrinha – “little snake.”
His ability to transform situations through the use of innovative and acrobatic solutions has established him as a leading figure in Capoeira Angola. His unique teaching methods and charismatic personality have inspired younger practitioners to engage deeply with their art, cultivating a new generation that appreciates both the history and the future of Capoeira. The video captures his passion and dedication, allowing viewers to witness firsthand the artistry and dedication that he brings to his practice.
Thank you for exploring Capoeira Angola, a cultural expression that blends martial arts, dance, music, and acrobatics. For more information on its history and techniques, please check the Menu of this website. Stay tuned for videos that provide further insights into its practices, traditions, and community.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 