What
This is a documentary film initiative integrated into the 2026 Atlantic Festival and aimed at enhancing the natural, scientific and landscape heritage of the Autonomous Region of Madeira. The project aims to publicize works by naturalists and documentary filmmakers, such as John Ovington, Joseph Banks, Daniel Solander, Robert Brown, Richard Thomas Lowe, Jacques Costeau, Ernest Shackleton, Ernest Schmidt and Edgar Gunther Maul, who, over the decades, have contributed to the knowledge, interpretation and public recognition of Madeira's biodiversity and ecosystems, constituting a relevant contribution to the promotion of environmental literacy and scientific memory in the Region.
Where
For this project, a series of four emblematic locations were selected whose proximity to the sea strengthens the connection between the designed content and the surrounding landscape.
2026
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· a) Cais da Ponta do Sol;
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· b) Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz;
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· c) Casa da Cultura de Santa Cruz (Quinta do Revoredo);
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· d) Cais do Carvão, Funchal.
These places were selected for their cultural relevance and their direct relationship with the Atlantic Ocean, constituting distinctive settings capable of providing a sensorially enriched cultural experience.
Why
The relevance of this initiative results from the uniqueness of Madeira's natural heritage and the need to promote its knowledge and understanding among the resident and visiting public. The screening of documentaries by naturalists who made significant contributions to the study of the Region allows recognition of the historical importance of scientific research in the archipelago, at the same time as it reinforces environmental awareness and encourages reflection on the conservation of ecosystems. The initiative is therefore of cultural, educational and social interest, fitting into regional strategies for promoting sustainability, scientific-artistic culture and qualified tourism during the Atlantic Festival period.
As a decentralized cultural proposal, DOC.Atlântico aims to involve different municipalities and communities, promoting democratic access to culture, valuing coastal public spaces and expanding the Region's cultural offer during a period of high tourist influx. It is aimed at the local population, national and foreign visitors, students, researchers and families, constituting a space for convergence between science, art and territory.
When
DOC.Atlântico is based on four outdoor cinema screening sessions, scheduled for every Friday in June, more precisely on the 5th, 12th, 15th and 26th of June 2026. These sessions are scheduled for 9:30 pm.
How
Each session of the cycle will be preceded by a brief contextualization about the documentary filmmaker and the relevance of his work for the knowledge of Madeira, followed by the projection of the work and, whenever applicable, a final moment of informal dialogue with the public. This methodology seeks to promote not only cinematographic viewing, but also the creation of a space for broad reflection, enhancing public involvement with the topics covered.
Trailer
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