Stereo, one of Curtas Vila do Conde’s most acclaimed and eagerly awaited sections, once again proves itself in 2025 as a key meeting point between music and cinema. Through the screenings of “Ritas” and “Monk in Pieces”, Stereo invites audiences to delve into the singular worlds of two artists whose influence extends across generations and genres. Narrated by the artist herself, “Ritas” offers an immersive journey through Rita Lee’s personal life and creative process — a blend of humor, feminism, rebellion, and onstage transformation that defined the queen of Brazilian rock. Meanwhile, “Monk in Pieces”, which had its world premiere at this year’s Berlinale, elegantly traces the singular path of Meredith Monk. With testimonies from figures such as David Byrne and Björk, the film reveals the cultural and artistic reach of an artist who expanded the boundaries of performance and music.

These two films are part of a special curation by the cooperative Mr. November, known for promoting the "Os Suspeitos" music series, and who now bring three powerful music documentaries to Curtas — including “Köln 75”, revisiting Keith Jarrett’s legendary 1975 concert in Cologne. The screenings of “Ritas” and “Monk in Pieces” will be preceded by a DJ set by Mr. November members Pedro Ferreira and Miguel Ortigão, setting the tone for a night where music spills far beyond the screen.

In a year where Stereo also features live performances by names like Lee Ranaldo (Sonic Youth), Félicia Atkinson, and John Carroll Kirby, the presence of these two remarkable films underscores Curtas’ ongoing commitment to diversity, innovation, and honoring voices that continue to reshape the cultural landscape.