When you compare this Brazilian drama with other productions of the period, you will be surprised. Even though I gave it a mere 5 out of 10, this is well above the Brazilian average. The actors are fine. Maria Della Costa is here a woman of stunning beauty, and a professional actress by any standard. Jardel Filho is good as always. The text contains many references to issues -- political corruption, middle class hypocrisy -- that are still hot. The production is lavish by the period's standards. The text is quite well written, albeit somewhat dated. The theme concerns the constraints, economical and otherwise, that impose upon women, forcing them to pursue a life of borderline prostitution. Odete Lara is not exactly a great actress, but who cares? I watch any urban film of the period just for the glimpse of a wonderful time that is no more. The musical selection adds to this pleasant ambiance.
