The Venice Film Festival is set to host a compelling array of Brazilian cinema this year, with a notable presence in both competition and special screenings.
Leading the charge is Walter Salles’ highly anticipated film ‘Ainda Estou Aqui,’ which will premiere in the festival’s official competition on September 1st. The film, based on Marcelo Rubens Paiva’s autobiographical book, tells the story of the Paiva family starting in the early 1970s, when a violent event dramatically alters their lives. Starring Fernanda Torres, Selton Mello, and Fernanda Montenegro, ‘Ainda Estou Aqui’ marks Salles’ third appearance at the festival. He previously presented ‘Abril Despedaçado’ in 2001 and received the Robert Bresson Award in 2009 for his body of work.
Beyond ‘Ainda Estou Aqui,’ other notable Brazilian works are featured in the festival. Petra Costa’s documentary ‘Apocalipse nos Trópicos’ will be showcased out of competition on September 29th. The film delves into the increasingly complex political landscape of Brazil, where the line between democracy and theocracy is becoming increasingly blurred. Costa, acclaimed for her Oscar-nominated ‘Democracia em Vertigem,’ explores the profound influence of religious leaders on Brazilian politics. Through access to high-profile figures like former President Lula, ex-President Bolsonaro, and Brazil’s leading televangelist, Costa sheds light on how the evangelical movement has shaped the country’s political discourse.
Adding to the festival’s Brazilian offerings, the 1965 film ‘O Homem que Virou Suco,’ an adaptation of a Guimarães Rosa short story, has been selected for the Venice Classics section, with screenings on August 29th and 30th. This dramatic film dives into themes of violence, redemption, and internal conflict, narrating the story of a violent rancher whose life takes a dramatic turn. After being ambushed by his enemies and left for dead, Augusto (Leonardo Villa) undergoes a transformative experience as he turns to religiosity. However, his path to redemption is complicated when he encounters a gangster who exacerbates his inner struggle. As he grapples with the conflict between his violent instincts and his newfound mysticism, his life becomes a tumultuous battle between his aggressive nature and his pursuit of spiritual peace. The film boasts a talented cast including Joffre Soares, Maria Ribeiro, Maurício do Valle, and Flávio Migliaccio.
In addition to these feature films, a number of other Brazilian works are making their mark at the festival. João Carlos Furia’s virtual reality animation, ‘A Minha Mãe é Uma Vaca,’ will be screened in the Venice Immersive section. The story follows a family through the eyes of a child, exploring the profound impact of a miscarriage. Through the children’s memories and artwork, the film unveils how the family confronts and embraces both life and death, ultimately moving forward.
Further highlighting the diverse talents of Brazilian filmmakers, the short film ‘Minha Mãe é Uma Vaca,’ directed by Moara Passoni, is selected for the Horizons Shorts section, with screenings on September 5th and 6th. Set on a burning Pantanal farm, the film centers on 12-year-old Mia, left in the care of her aunt while yearning for her mother’s comforting presence. Surrounded by a turbulent natural landscape and the imminent danger of a menacing jaguar, Mia discovers that love can take surprising forms amidst adversity.
Another noteworthy short film, ‘Marcielle,’ directed by Gabriela Amaral Almeida, is part of the Giornate degli Autori program. Set on the remote Marajó Island in Pará, the film follows 13-year-old Marcielle, who begins to realize that her future is bleak, shaped by her mother’s abandonment and the idealized memory of her deceased sister. Facing widespread violence that governs her family and community, Marcielle decides to confront and challenge the oppressive system that confines the women around her. Her courageous decision to stand against this ingrained cycle of abuse marks a significant and risky attempt to forge a different path for herself and others. The film features a strong cast, including Dira Paes, Fátima Macedo, and Rômulo Braga.
