Cast
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Giulia Benite
as Mônica
Kevin Vechiatto
as Cebolinha
Laura Rauseo
as Magali
Gabriel Moreira
as Cascão
Emilly Nayara
as Milena
Laís Villela
as Marina
Vinícius Higo
as Do Contra
Lucas Infante
as Humberto
Monica Iozzi
as Dona Luísa
Luiz Pacini
as Seu Sousa
Fafá Rennó
as Dona Cebola
Paulo Vilhena
as Seu Cebola
Marcela Rosis
as Dona Lili
Beto Schultz
as Seu Paulinho
Angélica di Paula
as Dona Lurdinha
Crew
Director
- Daniel Rezende
Producer
- Bianca Villar
- Daniel Rezende
- Fernando Fraiha
- Karen Castanho
- Marcio Fraccaroli
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Monica and Friends: Lessons examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Daniel Rezende brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Monica and Friends: Lessons took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.9 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2021, when this film is released:
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Monica and Friends: Lessons shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Precious, which focuses more on action than character development, Monica and Friends: Lessons offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Descendants and Star David explore similar territory, Monica and Friends: Lessons stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 30, 2021
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Budget: $1,900,000
- Revenue: $2,100,000
Where to Watch
