The popular remake of the classic Brazilian soap opera Vale Tudo has ignited significant discussion among viewers, particularly surrounding the price of sandwiches sold by the character Raquel, played by Taís Araujo. Raquel's sandwiches, priced at R$ 15, have become a hot topic on social media, with opinions divided on whether the price is justified or excessive.
Since its debut, Vale Tudo has captivated audiences with its engaging storyline and strong performances, but it is Raquel's entrepreneurial venture that has taken center stage in recent online debates. Many fans have taken to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to express their views, with some defending the price while others deem it too high. One user, identified only as Zé, remarked, "But what the hell, now they’re even criticizing the price of the R$ 15 sandwich that Raquel is selling on the beach." This reflects a growing frustration among some viewers who feel that the scrutiny is unwarranted.
Conversely, other social media users have pointed out that R$ 15 is a reasonable price for a beachside snack. A user named Cecília noted, "That’s exactly the price of a sandwich from Marcelo, a cultural landmark in Niterói, so I found it believable." This comparison highlights the varying perceptions of food pricing in different regions of Rio de Janeiro and beyond.
Further complicating the discourse, another user, Pati Figueiredo, argued, "You have to consider that the person is under the sun, carrying a heavy load, waking up early, often coming from far away, facing crowded transport. The price of things isn’t just about the ingredients. Don’t want to pay? Fine. Wake up and make your own." This comment reflects a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by street vendors, which adds a layer of empathy to the debate.
On the other hand, some viewers have shifted their focus to Raquel's financial success. Reports indicate that she sold 118 sandwiches on her first day, earning R$ 1,770. User Babi pointed out this impressive figure, which showcases Raquel’s entrepreneurial spirit and the potential profitability of her beachside business.
In a humorous twist, the discussions have also included references to a video by influencer Gabriel Cardoso, known as Laudo de Cria, who compared the prices of various beach snacks in Rio. His video, which has garnered over 25,000 likes, shows that the R$ 15 price tag is not out of line with other beach offerings, such as queijo coalho at R$ 12, mate at R$ 7, and milho verde at R$ 10.
As the narrative unfolds, viewers are also keeping a close eye on the storyline of Vale Tudo. On April 11, 2025, the plot thickens with several key developments. Maria Fátima, Raquel's daughter, pretends not to recognize her mother, heightening the emotional stakes of their relationship. Additionally, Ivan delivers a critical report to Consuelo, who is expected to pass it on to Teixeira, adding layers of intrigue to the unfolding drama. Meanwhile, Poliana offers comfort to Raquel, who feels humiliated by her daughter’s actions.
The soap opera's end is on the horizon, as it is set to conclude on October 17, 2025. Following its finale, Vale Tudo will be succeeded by Aguinaldo Silva's new series Três Graças, which is scheduled to premiere on October 20, 2025, at 9 PM on Globo. This transition has sparked discussions about the future of remakes in Brazilian television.
Amauri Soares, the executive director at Globo, recently commented on the network's approach to remakes, stating, "At this moment, we don’t have any proposals from any creator to make remakes." He emphasized that while remakes are not currently in the pipeline, they remain open to evaluating future ideas if they arise. This statement underscores the evolving landscape of Brazilian television, where remakes have become a staple, especially in prime time.
The debate surrounding Raquel's sandwich pricing and the overall narrative of Vale Tudo reflects broader societal discussions about economic realities and the value of hard work. As viewers continue to engage with the show, the conversations around it reveal much about contemporary Brazilian culture and its complexities.
In summary, Vale Tudo not only entertains but also serves as a mirror to society, prompting discussions about pricing, social dynamics, and the challenges faced by those striving to make a living in a competitive environment. As the show approaches its conclusion, fans are left to ponder the lessons learned and the stories yet to unfold in the world of Brazilian soap operas.
