With the release of the highly anticipated film Vitória on March 13, 2025, audiences are set to be captivated by the story of Dona Vitória Joana da Paz, portrayed by none other than iconic actress Fernanda Montenegro. This film is based on the courageous life of the woman who dared to challenge organized crime armed only with her camera from her window on the Ladeira dos Tabajaras, Rio de Janeiro, illuminating themes of resilience, justice, and the power of individual action.
Inspired by the real-life accounts chronicled by journalist Fábio Gusmão, Vitória brings to the forefront the extraordinary story of a nearly 80-year-old woman who documented the dangers of drug trafficking, producing evidence which led to her cooperation with law enforcement. "Dona Vitória did not exist yet; she was just a lady seeking justice, who had left the police seven or eight tapes on drug trafficking,” Gusmão recounted, reflecting on the early interactions he had with her story.
The film paints a portrait of Dona Vitória as not just another victim of crime, but as someone who fought back, documenting her experiences and the everyday terror of living next to drug dealers. Gusmão explained how her footage was akin to keeping "a video diary about her life and what she lived through, seeking help from the authorities." This narrative provided the basis for the film, which is poised to be both critically acclaimed and deeply moving for its audience.
Montenegro, celebrated for her outstanding contributions to Brazilian cinema, has been pivotal in various seminal works, particularly her groundbreaking role as Dora in the 1998 film Central do Brasil. This film not only raised her profile internationally but also marked a historic moment for Brazilian cinema, with Montenegro becoming the first Brazilian actress nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress. "Although I omitted some information to protect her life, now we can tell more about this story with some surprises," Gusmão noted, adding depth to the reality of their intertwined histories.
Defying the norms of her time, Montenegro's career spans over seven decades, showcasing her exceptional ability to transition across various mediums, including film, television, and stage. The daughter of famed actor and playwright Fernando Torres, she has shared the screen with him on numerous occasions and now is set to star with her own daughter, Fernanda Torres, again during these turbulent times.
Montenegro's legacy stretches back to 1944 when she began her career at the radio station MEC, quickly moving to theaters and later television. Her influence has been immense, leading the way for future generations of artists. From her memorable performance as Charlô in Guerra dos Sexos to her depiction of complex characters across diverse genres, she has earned numerous accolades, including the Grã-Cruz da Ordem Nacional do Mérito.
With her role as Eunice Paiva, shared with her daughter in the film Ainda Estou Aqui, Montenegro has once again proven her mettle and adaptability as she steps back onto screens with Vitória. Together, the mother-daughter duo symbolizes the continued evolution of Brazilian cinema, demonstrating not just familial bonds but also the rich narrative possibilities of their combined artistry.
While Montenegro may have originated her film career in more challenging times, she continues to embrace new opportunities, proving she is as formidable now at 95 as she was at the onset of her illustrious career. The challenge of taking on the real-life character of Dona Vitória, who fought against crime from her apartment, makes her upcoming performance highly anticipated. Gusmão succinctly stated, "She liked Fernanda Montenegro very much… she not only approved the idea of the film but wanted it to happen." This personal connection to the film adds layers of significance to Montenegro’s portrayal.
With the imminent release of Vitória, Montenegro has not only prepared another role worthy of acclaim but also reminds audiences of the strength of the human spirit against social ills. This film is not merely entertainment but serves as documentation of real fights for justice, reinforcing the narrative of resilience through the lens of personal and societal struggles.
The anticipation surrounding Vitória reflects Montenegro's enduring relevance and steady influence on the cinematic community. Her portrayal of figures like Dona Vitória will undoubtedly resonate deeply with viewers, casting light on the societal issues still prevalent today. The release will undoubtedly solidify Montenegro’s position not only as a pillar of Brazilian cinema but as one of the most enduring and celebrated actresses of all time.