Os Condenados

The first adaptation ever to cinema of a novel by Modernist writer Oswald de Andrade, and also an adaptation of his very first novel. The beginning of the movie is quite weird, but it becomes better as it advances, although keeping some drawbacks: theater-like overacting does not fit well, and the script is sometimes too hermetic. However, the film is visually charming, with good art direction, and the dramatic romantic triangle is interesting: the prostitute loves a violent pimp whereas a shy rower loves her, never getting a real chance. The chemistry between Claudio Marzo and Isabel Ribeiro is quite good, and Roberto Bataglin, despite not as skilled, has an appropriate presence as the abusive ruffian. To resume, the film has flaws but is interesting, and I consider it much better (and less problematic) than other adaptations of Modernist novels, such as O homem do pau-brasil (also based in Oswald de Andrade) and celebrated Mucunaíma, both by Joaquim Pedro de Andrade.