Falsa Loura (2007) User Reviews

The Fall of a Fake Blonde

[claudio_carvalho · 7/10 · 31 January 2009]

In São Paulo, the gorgeous and sexy worker Silmara (Rosane Mulholland) is a witty and smart leader of her colleagues and friends in the factory where she works. She proudly support her unemployed father Antero (João Bourbonnais), who is an arsonist that can not find a job since he has been released from the prison, with her honest hard work. After hours, Silmara lives a world of fantasy where she rules her friends and worships the pop singer Bruno (Cauã Reymond) and the romantic Luís Ronaldo (Maurício Mattar). When Antero finds a job with the powerful lawyer Dr. Vargas (Bruno de André), he gives some money to Silmara for spending in the concert of Bruno in the Clube Alvorada. Silmara goes with her friends, meeting Bruno after the show. They have one night stand and Bruno invites her to travel with the band for a show in Itanhaém; meanwhile her father travels to São José dos Campos to work as gardener. When Silmara watch on TV about a malicious burning of a property, Silmara travels back home and finds the police chasing her father. Then she is invited for an escort service with Luis Ronaldo.

The kitsch "Falsa Loura" works mostly because of the sexy Rosane Mulholland that gives a magnificent personification and interpretation of the lead character, a worker during the day and a tacky but sexy and morally ambiguous woman during the night, living a fake world like the color of her hair. Carlos Reichenbach seems to satirize the Cinderella fairytale or "Pretty Woman" with this ironic tale of a young woman that finds her prince charming twice and is treated like a whore in the end. This sensual movie is entertaining and Rosane Mulholland is indeed a very beautiful woman. My vote is seven.

Title (Brazil): "Falsa Loura" ("Fake Blonde")

What Women Think They Want

[jonascoutinho · 9/10 · 31 May 2024]

It is a very powerful movie. It explores deep and resonant themes within Brazilian culture, particularly focusing on the perceptions and ideals surrounding what women consider to be the perfect man in terms of appearance and what is deemed the ideal female body. The film delves into these societal norms and expectations, providing a critical look at how these ideals shape and influence behavior and self-worth.

The movie skillfully juxtaposes speech and actions, creating a narrative that showcases the complexity and multifaceted nature of its characters. This contrast serves to underline the hypocrisy prevalent in Brazilian society, where the gap between what people say and what they actually do often reveals deeper truths about societal values and personal integrity.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its ability to maintain a balance between satire and storytelling. It presents itself as a well-thought-out and meticulously executed satire of a fairy tale, subverting traditional elements of the genre to expose and critique societal flaws. The fairy tale framework is used effectively to both entertain and provoke thought, making viewers reflect on the unrealistic standards and expectations that are often perpetuated in society.

The characters are richly developed, each embodying different facets of these cultural critiques. Through their interactions and personal journeys, the film paints a vivid picture of the pressures and contradictions faced by individuals trying to navigate societal expectations. The protagonist's experiences, in particular, serve as a lens through which the audience can examine and question their own beliefs and the societal norms they encounter daily.

Visually, the movie is a feast for the eyes, using vibrant cinematography and thoughtful production design to enhance its themes. The aesthetic choices reinforce the contrast between reality and the idealized images that dominate cultural narratives. The soundtrack further complements the film's tone, adding emotional depth and resonance to key scenes.

Overall, this film is not just a story but a commentary on Brazilian society. It challenges viewers to look beyond superficial appearances and question the underlying values that shape our perceptions of beauty and perfection. It's a compelling and thought-provoking piece of cinema that leaves a lasting impact, encouraging a more critical and reflective approach to the cultural norms we often take for granted.