Braga all the rage in powerful Aquarius Aquarius (R16)
146 mins Like Kleber Mendonca Filho’s 2012 film festival favourite Neighbouring Sounds, the Brazilian director’s latest work focuses on an apartment block in Recife. However, rather than that film’s ensemble cast, Aquarius is very much the story of one woman – Clara (Sonia Braga).
The 65-year-old widow and retired music journalist is the last resident of a two-storey building by the seaside. Her mere presence is a massive thorn in the side of the development company who have plans for the site. They’ve bought out all her neighbours, but it will be for nought if they can’t shift her.
However, having pledged to only leave in a box, this lady is not for turning, even when her adult children believe the company has made her ‘‘an offer she shouldn’t refuse’’. Clara chides her kids’ stance, reminding them that this is where they grew up and that she has other assets that ensure they will have a legacy.
But just when she thinks she may have won her battle to stay, the company decides to step things up. It begins with moving workers into the building, followed by raucous parties. Clara retaliates with her own aural assault via a spot of Queen, although even she hasn’t counted on the devious and devastating lengths her adversaries will go to next.
Controversial in its homeland for unusually high censorship rating and snubbing from Academy Awards consideration (allegedly due to political statements made by cast and crew at the Cannes Film Festival), Aquarius is compelling story which boasts both a jaw-dropping twist and a satisfying denouement.
Veteran actress Braga (Kiss of the Spiderwoman) is simply superb as a woman determined to stay true to herself, even while life and her nemeses throw everything but the kitchen sink at her. An understated, yet powerful drama. – James Croot