Carolina Dieckmann immerses in AA experiences to embody Kátia’s alcoholism in upcoming film ‘(Des)Controle’

Actress Carolina Dieckmann undertook an extensive and deeply personal preparation for her role as Kátia in the highly anticipated film “(Des)Controle,” which premieres this Thursday, May 8, 2025. Her commitment to authenticity led her to attend meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous, both in-person and virtually, gaining crucial insights into the struggles of addiction.

In the new drama, Dieckmann portrays Kátia, a writer grappling with the immense pressure of managing her family, marriage, and career. This overwhelming personal chaos ultimately triggers a relapse into alcoholism, a battle she had seemingly won years prior, as she desperately tries to maintain an illusion of control over her life.

Dieckmann’s immersive approach, developed alongside directors Carol Minêm and Rosane Svartman, and producer/screenwriter Iafa Britz, involved a comprehensive study. This included extensive research from audiovisual and literary references, drawing on the team’s personal experiences, and most significantly, engaging directly with individuals navigating the challenging path to sobriety.

Embodying a complex struggle

Dieckmann emphasized the invaluable lessons learned from her time with Alcoholics Anonymous. “Being able to listen to people who are in this fight to control an addiction,” she explained, highlighting the profound impact of these encounters on her understanding of Kátia’s journey. She also delved into several publications from the fellowship, further deepening her grasp of the recovery process.

Her experience with AA proved to be a cornerstone for her character development. “The work of AA is very important, very beautiful,” Dieckmann stated. “The people who are there to help, to lead discussions—they have a pride in being there. The dedication of the people who go there to help is truly beautiful.” She firmly believes that this firsthand exposure was “very determinant in the construction of my character.”

Navigating addiction and control

The film ingeniously uses a narrative device where Kátia sometimes confronts an alternate version of herself—her persona while under the influence of alcohol. This dual portrayal demanded a meticulous physical transformation from Dieckmann, who crafted distinct characteristics for each state of her character. The actress engaged in extensive body work to differentiate Kátia’s sober and intoxicated states.

Carolina Dieckmann elaborated on her physical preparation, noting: “I undertook body work to understand how I would use the body’s imbalance, what a person feels, where that reflects.” She meticulously explored the nuances of movement and demeanor associated with intoxication. This included mastering the “slowness, the person who starts to become more sluggish” to accurately convey the physical manifestations of alcoholism.

Behind the scenes: directing a challenging narrative

The directorial duo, Rosane Svartman and Carol Minêm, guided the production of “(Des)Controle,” navigating the sensitive themes of addiction and mental health with a nuanced approach. Their collaboration with Dieckmann ensured that the portrayal remained respectful and authentic, moving beyond stereotypes to present a realistic depiction of a woman’s struggle.

The production team emphasized a holistic research process that integrated various perspectives, from medical literature to personal accounts. This rigorous methodology underpinned the film’s narrative integrity and its capacity to resonate deeply with audiences who may have experienced similar challenges or know someone who has.

Filming scenes depicting Kátia’s relapse required not only technical precision but also a profound understanding of the emotional landscape of addiction. The directors worked closely with the cast to create a safe and supportive environment, allowing for powerful and vulnerable performances that convey the gravity of Kátia’s situation.

The commitment to realism extended to every aspect of the film’s development, ensuring that the visual storytelling complemented Dieckmann’s performance. This dedicated collaboration between the actress, directors, and screenwriters aimed to deliver a impactful cinematic experience that sheds light on a complex issue.

The wider cast and creative team

Beyond Carolina Dieckmann, the film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Caco Ciocler, Irene Ravache, Daniel Filho, and Júlia Rabelo, among others. Their collective talent contributes to the rich tapestry of Kátia Klein’s world, creating a compelling narrative that explores the societal and personal pressures leading to her relapse. The film promises a thoughtful and poignant examination of vulnerability and the relentless pursuit of control.