Clarissa Campolina: Last News

Touching in parts, but never truly affecting, Clarissa Campolina and Helvecio Marins Jr.’s borderline documentary centres on embracing life before death and how we cope when those we love are no longer around.With very strong improvisational checkpoints used throughout, there is a lot of fun to be had in watching two octogenarians having a good old gossip on the doorstep or losing themselves to the beat of the drum-heavy music that is so very fundamental to the film’s heartbeat. We feel as if we are peeking into the lives of others from the shots through open doorways, but it is in its most simplest moments such as preparing dinner that the film really finds its magic.Although religious undertones are hinted at, the film never becomes too heavy, but relishes in taking its time to do as it pleases (which will not be to everyone’s taste) just like our leading lady.

John Hopewell Chief International CorrespondentA decade back, Clarissa Campolina burst on the filmmaking scene co-directing with Helvecio Marins Jr. “Swirl” (“Girimunho”), a portrait of an elderly faith healer on Brazil’s arid highlands and the beliefs, myths and habits of rural Brazil before they are swept aside by the passing of a generation.Activated by producer Luana Melgaço, Campolina and fellow director Marilia Rocha so as to produce “Swirl,” Belo Horizonte-based Anavilhana has since then consolidated as one of Brazil’s most prominent regional production houses.