Film of the Day: "A Vida Invisível" — One of the Most Unjust Stories You've Ever Seen

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At first it seems like it's just a story about two sisters. But after half an hour you realize: this is a film about a stolen life. Or rather, about two.

Today's "Film of the Day" spotlight shines on "A Vida Invisível" (2019) by Karim Aïnouz, which earned the director the Un Certain Regard Award at the Cannes Film Festival. This is one of the most powerful women's dramas in recent years that you probably missed. And that's a shame.

What it's about

Brazil, 1950s. Two sisters, Eurídice (Carol Duarte) and Guida (Julia Stockler), grow up in a patriarchal household with big dreams: one yearns for freedom and love, the other for a career as a musician. But fate intervenes brutally and quietly—they're torn apart by lies, and each begins a new life alone, believing the other has betrayed her.
A man and woman kissing and embracing by a car in the moonlight
Frames from the film "A Vida Invisível"
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In reality, they're simply crushed by circumstances. A society where women are just functions. Where motherhood trumps all personal desires. Where dreams are abandoned in whispers, tears wiped away with aprons. And then—you live as if that's how it should be.

Why you should watch it

Because this is absolutely gorgeous cinema. Every frame pulses with light, texture, and atmosphere. You literally feel Rio's heat, hear the clatter of pots and the rustle of letters being written.

Because this isn't melodrama—it's a blood-written chronicle of how women's voices get stolen. Not even through malice, but through silence, habit, and rules.

And because Eurídice isn't fictional. She represents thousands of women who didn't dream of much but never got even that.

If you prefer stories about strong heroines... well, this film is for you too. Plus, critics and audiences are raving about it. On IMDb, they've given it a 7.7 rating, and on Rotten Tomatoes it boasts 94% "fresh." Earlier on zoomboola.com, we covered "Manhunter"—perfect cinema for those who love to think rather than just get scared.