Tânia Maria Joins Leonardo Lacca's 'Sábado Morto,' Produced by Oscar-Nominated Emilie Lesclaux

A Cinematic Reunion: Talents Align for "Sábado Morto"

Tânia Maria's New Cinematic Journey with Leonardo Lacca

Acclaimed actress Tânia Maria, celebrated for her captivating performance in "The Secret Agent," has officially joined the cast of Leonardo Lacca's latest feature film, "Sábado Morto." This new venture marks a significant collaboration, bringing together prominent figures in contemporary Brazilian cinema.

Filming Underway in Brazil's Northeast

Production for "Sábado Morto" is actively progressing, with filming taking place across various locations in the picturesque Brazilian Northeast. The creative team has chosen the vibrant city of Recife and the enchanting Pernambuco countryside as key backdrops for the film's narrative. This setting promises to infuse the movie with a rich cultural tapestry and stunning visuals.

A Compelling Narrative Unfolds in "Sábado Morto"

The plot of "Sábado Morto" centers on a young medical resident from Recife whose life takes an unexpected turn, compelling him to return to his ancestral hometown in the Pernambuco backlands after a long absence. There, he is reunited with his mother, Terezinha, who is driven to uncover the truth behind a series of recent mysterious events. As memories resurface and unsettling truths emerge, deep-seated family secrets begin to unravel, creating a suspenseful and emotionally charged drama. The extensive five-week shooting schedule includes both the bustling capital of Recife and the serene Arcoverde region, ensuring a diverse and immersive cinematic experience. The film also features a talented ensemble cast, including Malu Falangola, Múcia Teixeira, and Matteus Cardoso.

Lacca's Vision and Collaborative Spirit

"Sábado Morto" represents Leonardo Lacca's third directorial endeavor, following his previous works "Permanência" and "Seu Cavalcanti." This project also signifies the third partnership between Lacca's production company, Trincheira Filmes, and Cinemascópio, a testament to their successful creative synergy. Lacca, with two decades of experience as a director, screenwriter, and acting coach, has a notable history of working on acclaimed films, including serving as an assistant director for Kleber Mendonça Filho’s "Bacurau" and "The Secret Agent," and as an acting coach for "Aquarius" and "Neighboring Sounds."

A Shared Passion for Storytelling

Oscar-nominated producer Emilie Lesclaux expressed her profound satisfaction in witnessing the film's artistic vision materialize. Lacca echoed these sentiments, highlighting the joy of collaborating with Lesclaux once again. He described the filmmaking process as "intense and beautiful," expressing particular enthusiasm for the upcoming filming phase in the breathtaking Pernambuco backlands.

Tânia Maria's Evolving Career and Collaborative Dynamic

Tânia Maria's journey into acting began with a brief cameo in "Bacurau." Her breakout role as Dona Sebastiana in "The Secret Agent" garnered widespread international acclaim and numerous awards, solidifying her status as a celebrated actress. "Sábado Morto" marks her first collaboration with Lacca, although she has previously starred in "Seu Cavalcanti" and the upcoming series "Delegado," slated for release on Canal Brasil. Lacca praised Maria's versatility and presence, noting her ability to illuminate the set and captivate everyone with her charm. He spoke of a blossoming grandmother-grandson dynamic between them, emphasizing the beautiful transformation in her life and her discovery as an actress, which has profoundly enriched their personal and professional relationship.

International Co-Production and Festival Recognition

"Sábado Morto" is a collaborative effort between Brazil's Cinemascópio and Trincheira Filmes, and Chile's Planta. Planta has recently achieved significant international recognition, with three of its productions selected for this year's Cannes Film Festival: Dominga Sotomayor’s "La Perra" and Lisandro Alonso’s "Double Freedom," both featured in Directors’ Fortnight, and Federico Luis’s "For the Opponents," competing in the shorts section. This international co-production highlights the global appeal and collaborative spirit behind "Sábado Morto."