Watch Taking the Face: The Portuguese Bullfight

Taking the Face: The Portuguese Bullfight is a documentary film from 2008 that dives deep into the world of bullfighting in Portugal. Directed by filmmaker Daniel Gould, the film explores not only the cultural and historical significance of the sport but also the ethical debates surrounding it. The film begins with an introduction to the different players in a bullfight - the bullfighter, the bull, and the horsemen. We also learn about the specific style of bullfighting practiced in Portugal, which differs significantly from the more famous Spanish tradition. In Portugal, the bullfight is more of a team sport, with the horsemen playing an essential role in guiding the bull and protecting the bullfighter. Unlike in Spain, where the bull is killed at the end of the fight, in Portugal, the bull is not injured, and the goal is simply to demonstrate the skill and bravery of the bullfighter.

Throughout the film, we hear from a variety of voices on the topic of bullfighting. There are interviews with bullfighters, horsemen, and even animal rights activists who are working to end the practice in Portugal. These conversations are interspersed with footage of bullfights, both in the ring and behind the scenes. We see the careful preparation that goes into each fight, from the selection of the bulls to the training of the horses and the bullfighters.

One of the most compelling aspects of Taking the Face is the way in which it balances the perspectives of those who are both for and against bullfighting. We hear from bullfighters who speak passionately about the excitement and tradition of the sport, as well as from those who argue that it is a cruel and outdated practice. Similarly, we hear from animal rights activists who insist that all bullfighting should be outlawed, and from those who feel that the Portuguese style is a more humane alternative to the Spanish version.

Another noteworthy aspect of the film is the way in which it explores the gender dynamics of bullfighting. We learn about the history of female bullfighters in Portugal, who faced significant opposition when trying to break into the traditionally male-dominated world of bullfighting. We hear from some of these pioneering women and see footage of their fights, which are just as fierce and exciting as those of their male counterparts.

Overall, Taking the Face: The Portuguese Bullfight is an informative and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on a complex and controversial tradition. It offers a nuanced look at the different perspectives surrounding bullfighting and raises important questions about the ethics of this ancient sport. Whether you are a fan of bullfighting or believe it should be outlawed, this film is sure to give you a deeper understanding of the forces at play in this heated debate.

Taking the Face: The Portuguese Bullfight is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.0.