Exploring the Beaches and Nightlife of Rio De Janeiro in 24 Hours

Rio De Janeiro is the second most populous city in Brazil and known for its Copacabana beaches and over the top party scene. Outside of the usual tourist attractions, the seaside city is also well known for it’s socio-economic disparity which makes itself apparent in the favelas and relatively high crime rate in and around the city. Being a prime representation of a state divided and perpetuated by both it’s decadence and it’s poverty, Rio De Janeiro continues to be a paradox to tourists and locals alike. The city continues to be a draw for those who want to party and those who want to explore.

Diego D’Andrea, a filmmaker, illustrator and photographer hailing from Brazil sought to shed some light on the light-hearted draws of the city—the beaches, the music, the beautiful people enjoying both of the former. With a sped up time lapse of the city, D’Andrea captures the carefree frenzy of the beach city and the nightlife showing tourists what they will encounter upon visiting.

The video begins with a hand held, DIY style camera view of a man getting out of bed, into the shower and ready for the day. He skateboards down to the beach where the rest of the video begins with a time-lapse of the sunrise by the water displaying Rio’s growing vibrancy mediated by the pulsing, yet calming beats of the Brazilian drum that moves, in sync with the video. When the camera is thrown underwater, the music is diluted, too, till both break waves and re-emerge to a bustling Rio beachside.

Following the rising of the sun is a flow of surfers, bikini-clad party girls, and volleyball players that all crowd the beaches in hopes of catching some sun. What Rio promises, outside of beautiful beaches and sunrises is beautiful people. Young, old, diverse: the defining attribute of their beauty is in their happiness which is ceaselessly displayed in their sun-kissed skin and salt stung hair. There is a vitality, an energy about Rio that is unmatched.

 

As the beach goers begin to wind down, the sun following suit, bikinis and swim trunks are traded for nightlife attire. The nightlife of Rio features a growing collection of bars, clubs, places to eat out and live music from street musicians, echoing on all corners of the street, interacting with crowds who have lined up to watch them perform. Yet another city that never sleeps, Rio promises both the gentle lapse of sea breeze for a calming afternoon by the water and the diaphragm-shaking deep music by brass instrument players and Brazilian drummers alike at night.

As the video winds down, the camera wielder returns to his small apartment and lays down in bed, predictably contemplating his time in paradise and what rendezvous he will get up to tomorrow!