In a futuristic Brazil of 2027, where religious zeal and state control go hand in hand, Joana works as a civil servant in the registry office. Deeply rooted in her evangelical community “Divino Amor,” she uses her position to prevent couples who want to divorce from separating. She uses unconventional methods ranging from spiritual counseling to physical therapy. Although Joana and her husband Danilo regularly participate in these rituals, their fervent desire for a child remains unfulfilled. This personal crisis leads Joana to question her faith and the practices of her community. The film paints a picture of a society in which religious dogma and state institutions are inextricably linked, and raises the question of how much control over personal life is acceptable. Gabriel Mascaro's DIVINE LOVE (original title: DIVINO AMOR) is a visually stunning blend of science fiction and socially critical drama. With bright neon colors and a pulsating electronic soundtrack, the film creates an atmosphere that is both fascinating and unsettling. Dira Paes is convincing in the role of Joana, lending the character a deep emotionality. The film premiered in competition at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival and was subsequently shown in the Panorama section of the Berlinale. It received positive reviews for its bold portrayal of a future Brazil in which personal freedom and state-religious control exist in a fragile balance.
Brazil, 2027: Joana is deeply religious. At work, she encourages divorcing couples to reconsider their breakup.
In a futuristic Brazil of 2027, where religious zeal and state control go hand in hand, Joana works as a civil servant in the registry office. Deeply rooted in her evangelical community “Divino Amor,” she uses her position to prevent couples who want to divorce from separating. She uses unconventional methods ranging from spiritual counseling to physical therapy.
Although Joana and her husband Danilo regularly participate in these rituals, their fervent desire for a child remains unfulfilled. This personal crisis leads Joana to question her faith and the practices of her community. The film paints a picture of a society in which religious dogma and state institutions are inextricably linked, and raises the question of how much control over personal life is acceptable.
Gabriel Mascaro's DIVINE LOVE (original title: DIVINO AMOR) is a visually stunning blend of science fiction and socially critical drama. With bright neon colors and a pulsating electronic soundtrack, the film creates an atmosphere that is both fascinating and unsettling. Dira Paes is convincing in the role of Joana, lending the character a deep emotionality.
The film premiered in competition at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival and was subsequently shown in the Panorama section of the Berlinale. It received positive reviews for its bold portrayal of a future Brazil in which personal freedom and state-religious control exist in a fragile balance.