Colorful parade in Ponte de Lima.

 The Delightful Filmable Portuguese

 By Sue Denn

As documentary filmmakers, whether using digital or actual film, we feel it is of importance to tell the stories of people and show their unique culture.  Sometimes that can prove to be a daunting task, especially in a land that perhaps frowns on the medium, or for that matter, the media.  Then there are those places where it seems as if you have discovered paradise.  People actually are pleased, and sometimes even seem honored that you have chosen to take part in their experiences, whether at work or at play.

Portugal is one paradise waiting for the photographer.  Clint and I had a wonderful time, lots of laughter, and many memorable experiences while filming Portugal & Cruising the Douro River. Surely, we would have enjoyed our trip to Portugal if only for the wonderful scenery, fascinating history and exciting diversity.  But in the weeks we spent traveling in every region of the country we fell in love with the people of Portugal.

We rented a car to travel the highways (excellent – and fast) and the byways (scenic and well-maintained), map in hand, with eyes peeled for scenes of interest and serendipity awaiting us.  What we found were friendly, fun-loving people with ready smiles and an eagerness to help when we were “misplaced” or were asking seemingly pointless questions, often using only our common understanding of Spanish to communicate.

A few examples of our experiences might be a better way of understanding why we had so much fun “working” on our production and maybe you’ll have some fun sharing our wonderful memories.

We had a problem with our Sony camera-mount microphone and were looking for a replacement.  Through the course of our frustrating search (5 different locations) we had shop owners: make numerous phone calls; draw us maps; walk us up the block to another store; stay open late; and “patch” a fix for us.  At one stop, (again “misplaced”) we were asking for directions from two gentlemen who were debating where this elusive authorized Sony dealer just might be.  When I thanked them for their help and taking so much time (using my 2^nd-grade Spanish), they laughed and said, “Of course we are friendly and helpful, we are Portuguese. What, do you think we are, like the Spanish?”

In the college town of Evora we were searching  for the 13^th century cathedral when we came upon a group of young ladies still in their black graduate gowns and capes.  On the shady steps of the cathedral they set up an impromptu entertainment session with lovely songs and lively dancing as entertainment for their families before their graduation ceremony.  Within minutes we were invited to “front row center” position to film the family celebration.

At the small town of Ponte de Lima we encountered what could have been a bit of a nightmare.  A large crowd, totally devoid of “tourists,” had already gathered tightly around the raised stage where the folkloric dancers would perform by the time Clint and I arrived.

The few chairs up front were rightly taken by dignitaries and aged citizens of the town.  We scooted into whatever small opening was left for us, heading off in different directions.  Clint began filming from one edge with the camera as high as possible over the many heads between us and the stage, getting just bits and pieces of the musicians and dancers.  When I next looked up I was aghast- he was up on the stage – next to the announcer – as the next group of dancers came on stage.  The mayor of had motioned for him to come up on stage to film when they saw his predicament.  Amid smiles, nods and waves we became part of the celebration, free to film and take photos, welcomed warmly by the people of Ponte de Lima.

Throughout the years Clint and I have often talked of the “Friendliest People on Earth” title and which culture should win it, usually coming to a tie between Fiji and Ireland.  Seems now, we have settled on a “terrific trio” of winners with our latest addition of Portugal.  What a gem of a country and jewel box of people.

“New shows from Clint & Sue Denn”

Jan. 2010 – “Portugal & Cruising the Douro”

Sept. 2010 – “Budapest to Istanbul & Cruising the Danube”

Jan. 2011 – “Vietnam, Cambodia & Cruising the Mekong”

FRANKLIN FILM ARTISTS

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