The highly anticipated remake of the Brazilian soap opera Vale Tudo premiered on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 9:20 PM (Brasília time) on TV Globo and Globoplay, sparking a mix of nostalgia and curiosity among viewers. Originally created by Gilberto Braga, Aguinaldo Silva, and Leonor Bassères in 1988, the new version is helmed by Manuela Dias, who aims to update and recontextualize the central themes of the story, asking the provocative question: is anything permissible to get ahead in life?
The cast features a diverse lineup, including Taís Araújo as Raquel, Débora Bloch, Bella Campos, Paolla Oliveira, Renato Góes, Alice Wegmann, Humberto Carrão, Cauã Reymond, and Carolina Dieckmann. The first chapter of the remake stayed true to the original storyline, particularly regarding the main characters: Raquel, Maria de Fátima (Bella Campos), Ivan (Renato Góes), and César Ribeiro (Cauã Reymond). Almost 37 years separate the original from the remake, making it necessary for some plots and situations to be updated.
One of the significant changes noted in the new version is the relationship between Maria de Fátima and César Ribeiro, who were already in bed together in the remake, a departure from the original storyline where they did not engage until later. Additionally, the character Solange Duprat, once a fashion journalist, has evolved into the director of a content agency, reflecting contemporary career trends. Solange will also face personal challenges, including diabetes, adding depth to her character.
In a notable shift from the original, the romance between Cecília and Laís, which was rejected by the public in 1988, is now portrayed positively, allowing the characters to express their love freely. This change marks a significant advancement in the representation of LGBTQ+ relationships on Brazilian television.
Another character transformation is seen in Gildo, who was a street boy in the original series. In the remake, Gildo has become Gilda, an older girl who will also receive Raquel's help, showcasing a shift in the narrative's focus on empowerment and support.
The character of Marco Aurélio, portrayed by Alexandre Nero in the remake, represents the unscrupulous businessman archetype, reminiscent of the original's portrayal. Marco Aurélio's entrance in the new series was notably marked by his arrival via helicopter at his company headquarters, evoking comparisons to the HBO series Succession. This scene sets the tone for his character, who embodies the ruthless corporate executive often depicted in popular media.
As Marco Aurélio navigates the corporate landscape, he reflects a broader critique of business leaders as inherently greedy and power-hungry. This portrayal, while engaging for viewers, raises questions about the fairness of demonizing all corporate executives. In one humorous scene, Marco Aurélio dismisses his secretaries with disdain, insisting they don't greet him, reinforcing the stereotype of the callous executive.
Regina Duarte, who famously played Raquel in the original version, expressed her concerns about the changes in the remake. In an interview, she admitted, "I’m not a fan of remakes, especially those based on great successes," highlighting her discomfort with the alteration of Gildo's character to Gilda. Despite her reservations, she extended her support to Taís Araújo, encouraging her to embrace the role and enjoy the character's complexities.
Taís Araujo shared her experience of connecting with Regina Duarte after being cast as Raquel, acknowledging the iconic status of the character. "I had read Regina's kind messages about my involvement, and I felt it was important to express my gratitude," Araujo stated. Their exchange reflects a mutual respect between the two actresses, despite their differing views on the remake.
As the story unfolds, Raquel, now a tour guide in Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná, embarks on a journey to reconnect with her daughter, Maria de Fátima, who has left for Rio de Janeiro in pursuit of wealth and social status. Maria de Fátima's ambition leads her into a relationship with César Ribeiro, who encourages her to seduce Afonso Roitman, a wealthy heir. Meanwhile, Raquel struggles to make ends meet by selling sandwiches on the beach and finds love with Ivan, a business administrator.
Another significant aspect of the remake is the setting, which has shifted from the original Catete neighborhood to Vila Isabel, reflecting the changes in Rio de Janeiro's socio-economic landscape over the decades. This update not only modernizes the story but also acknowledges the realities of urban development.
The premiere of the new Vale Tudo has reignited discussions about the portrayal of business ethics, family dynamics, and social mobility in Brazilian society. As viewers tune in, they will undoubtedly engage with these themes, reflecting on how they resonate with contemporary issues.
As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how the characters develop and how the narrative addresses the complexities of ambition, morality, and the lengths individuals will go to achieve their dreams. With its mix of nostalgia and modernity, the new Vale Tudo aims to captivate both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers, ensuring that the legacy of this beloved soap opera continues to thrive.
