Two films tracing the history of the African slave trade in Brazil will be shown for free at 7 p.m. Thursday in the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, as part of the 22nd Annual Blacks Arts Festival, "Refocusing on African Roots."

The films, Xica and Quilombo, are by Brazilian filmmaker Carlos Diegues, and are based on true events.

"Both tell an important story that people need to be aware of -- the history of slavery in Brazil," said Lawrence Young, director of Paul Robeson Cultural Center.

Xica follows the struggle of a woman who, through "wit and guile," became the wife of an estate province governor in Brazil. In this position she worked for egalitarian reform between the Portugese and Africans. The film, though a comedy, traces her career through her husband's removal and her eventual re-enslavement and provides some interesting insights, Young said.

Xica was described by New York Times film critic Vincent Canby as ". . .a carnival-like spectacle of outrageous costumes, music and dance." Although the African culture heavily involves music and dancing, the film is not a musical, Young said.

Quilombo is the story of one of the most famous revolts against African slavery in Brazil. It tells of a group of 17th century Africans who form their own enclave to fight the Portugese oppression. The film incorporates a lot of African folklore and religion that is "very much current," Young said.

Young also said that both films contain excellent color, music and other cinematographic effects. He said Diegues is considered the most brilliant Brazilian filmmaker alive.

"I think it would be interesting to see if it's on the (African) slave trade in Brazil because not a lot of focus has been placed on that," said Lisa Scott (junior-administration of justice).

Young said that although there will not be one this year, there is usually an annual Brazilian Film Festival which addresses an African issue in a film from the Center. The choosing of these films demonstrates an ongoing contribution to the Center's awareness of Brazilian filmmaking, he said.