O Descobrimento do Brasil (The Discovery of Brazil) is an impressive historical epic recreating Álvares Cabral’s voyage to the New World in 1500, with a score especially written by the renowned composer, Heitor Villa-Lobos. One of the earliest examples of Brazilian cinema, this film depicts the perilous journey of Pedro Álvares Cabral’s armada from Portugal to Brazil. Though somewhat rudimentary compared to other films of the period, The Discovery of Brazil distinguishes itself with its scenes of indigenous people and Portuguese explorers on the beach, and in the imaginative lighting on board the ship. But the real star is the beautiful cantata by Villa-Lobos that permeates the film.

It depicts the notorious criminal incident that had occured in Rio de Janeiro.

In a small town in the countryside, the population is excited about the imminent arrival of a circus that brings excitement to the peaceful life of the city.

Ubirajara, chief of the Araguaias, is engaged to Jandyra. One day, however, he falls in love with Aracy, daughter of Itaquê, chief of the Tocantins and sister of Pojucã, his prisoner. He frees Pojucã so he can declare war on Itaquê and retrieve his daughter. Itaquê is wounded by other enemies and goes blind. The two tribes unite and elect Ubirajara as chief.

Returning from a pleasant horseback ride, two lovers on their way home contemplate each other, entranced by the modesty inherent in the rigid customs they were raised in. The hero feels an irrepressible desire to come to Rio. In the capital, interested in a theater star, he heads to Buenos Aires to win her heart.