2nd Brazilian Film Festival returns with women-centric stories

The Embassy of Brazil in Malaysia is set to host the Second Brazilian Film Festival at Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) Mid Valley Megamall from 5th to 8th December.

This year’s festival, organized in collaboration with Vale and GSC International Screens, focuses on the theme of the ‘female gaze’, celebrating the resilience and empowerment of women through a curated selection of award-winning Brazilian films.

Spotlighting Women’s Stories in Cinema

The festival will showcase four critically acclaimed films, each directed by renowned Brazilian female filmmakers: Anna Muylaert (The Second Mother), Laís Bodanzky (Just Like Our Parents), Maya Da-Rin (The Fever), and Lúcia Murat (Paris Square). These works, presented in Portuguese with English subtitles, offer nuanced insights into Brazilian society and its strides towards gender equity and inclusion.

H.E. Ary Norton de Murat Quintella, the Brazilian Ambassador to Malaysia, emphasized the importance of the theme, “Women often capture different nuances and see the façade of common sense and the mechanisms of self-repression that permeate our daily lives. As their voice is often underrepresented in cinema in general, we thought it fitting and opportune to offer four portraits that shed a light on different aspects of Brazilian society, made by four talented and contemporary female filmmakers. Though pertaining to a Brazilian context, their messages are often universal, and we hope audiences in Kuala Lumpur, ever so open to welcome art from outside the mainstream, will enjoy the programme.”

Supporting Cultural and Inclusive Initiatives

Vale, a global mining giant celebrating its 10th year in Malaysia, continues its support for the Brazilian Film Festival as part of its commitment to fostering cultural and social initiatives. The company’s focus on promoting diversity and inclusion aligns with the festival’s mission.

Leonardo Paiva, CEO of Vale Malaysia, highlighted the significance of storytelling in driving advocacy for social change, “Filmmaking is a powerful cultural tool to foster a stronger advocacy towards a more sustainable and inclusive future; something that Vale is passionate about. We believe the selection of this year’s theme, which harnesses the essence of women-centric storytelling, is important, as Vale continues to support the flourishing cultural ties between Malaysia and Brazil, which are defined by the nations’ shared passion for diversity, inclusion, and progress.”

Free Screenings

The Brazilian Film Festival screenings are free and open to the public, encouraging audiences in Malaysia to experience Brazilian culture through the lens of its filmmakers. Tickets can be redeemed one hour before each screening at GSC Mid Valley Megamall on a first-come, first-served basis.

As the festival returns following its successful debut last year, it underscores the growing cultural exchange between Malaysia and Brazil. The spotlight on women’s perspectives in film highlights shared global themes of empowerment, resilience, and the universal quest for equality.

With the support of the Embassy of Brazil, Vale, and GSC, the Second Brazilian Film Festival promises a unique cinematic experience, fostering deeper appreciation for Brazilian artistry while inspiring conversations on diversity and inclusion.