Balomania

Balomania reveals a secret society of hot air balloon makers in the favelas of Brazil who are willing to sacrifice everything to fly their illegal creations, some up to 70 meters high, with fireworks. The film's director is initiated into the balloon brotherhood under the mentoring of legendary balloon makers. She establishes her own complicated relationships with these extraordinary flying objects and their creators. Balomania takes us on a surreal and intimate journey into a country that is also facing socioeconomic decline and political collapse. It challenges our preconceived ideas about favela communities, and shows the true power of art.