Rio De Janeiro has historically always been the cultural capital of Brazil. After the introduction of democracy in 1985, Rio exploded with diverse cultural expressions and has since been known, the world over, as one the most culturally-expressive cities. The city's cultural landscape is dominated by the Carnival celebrations that exhibit the Samba rhythm of the country. It has a very active LGBT community that attracts people from across the world to celebrate the Gay Pride. It is also the main hub for cinema production in the country and hosts international film festivals across the year. The city’s landscape is dominated by the statue of Christ the Redeemer that can be seen looming above from any point in the city. The two most popular festivals celebrated in the city are the New Year Eve festivities that culminate on the famous Copacabana Beach with a show of fireworks, and the five-day annual Carnival hosted in the now permanent Sambadrome. Both these festivals are major tourist attractions in Rio and people from the world over come to jive to the Samba.
