Story perspectives

‘Saudades Eternas’ Highlights Resilience Amid Rio's Violence

4/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Saudades Eternas, directed by Emma Boccanfuso, premiered at Visions du Réel and centers on Sueli, a matriarch in Chapéu Mangueira, Rio de Janeiro.
Boccanfuso, who lived next door, uses a stripped-down filming approach to contrast daily life with surrounding violence.
Sound plays a crucial role, reconstructing violence through audio rather than visuals.
The film emphasizes resilience and plans a follow-up on Copacabana beach from a locals’ perspective.

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Story summary

Saudades Eternas, directed by Emma Boccanfuso, premiered at Visions du Réel and centers on Sueli, a matriarch in Chapéu Mangueira, Rio de Janeiro.
Boccanfuso, who lived next door, uses a stripped-down filming approach to contrast daily life with surrounding violence.
Sound plays a crucial role, reconstructing violence through audio rather than visuals.
The film emphasizes resilience and plans a follow-up on Copacabana beach from a locals’ perspective.