Brazilian debut explores memory and justice at Berlinale’s experimental forum, hinting at a powerful October release

A new Brazilian cinematic work, “Fiz um Foguete Imaginando que Você Vinha” (I Made a Rocket Imagining You Were Coming), has commenced its international journey at the prestigious Berlin Film Festival, which began this Thursday, February 12, and runs until February 22. The film, a profound exploration of memory, trauma, and reconciliation, is featured in the Berlinale Forum section, known for showcasing formally and narratively experimental proposals that push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. Its selection underscores the growing global recognition of innovative Brazilian filmmaking.

The feature-length picture marks a significant directorial debut for Janaína Marques, bringing a fresh perspective to the international film scene. It delves deep into the human psyche, unraveling a complex narrative centered on the protagonist’s quest for understanding and healing.

Producer Maurício Macêdo highlighted the strategic importance of the Berlinale platform, emphasizing its critical role in bolstering the film’s international career before its commercial launch in Brazil later this year.

Memory, trauma, and a journey into the subconscious

The film’s compelling plot centers on Rosa, portrayed by Verônica Cavalcanti, who is instructed to conjure a happy memory during an MRI scan. This seemingly simple directive propels her into a profound journey through her subconscious, where the lines between lived experience and imagined reality begin to blur.

Rosa revisits her past, not merely as it happened, but as she reconstructs an episode she never truly lived: a poignant journey with her mother, Dalva. Luciana Souza embodies Dalva, a character depicted as a free-spirited and irreverent woman whose life took a dramatic turn when she was imprisoned for killing a man to prevent a femicide.

The weight of an absent mother

Growing up in her mother’s absence, Rosa carries a heavy burden of guilt and fear, shaped by the tumultuous history surrounding Dalva. This emotional landscape forms the core of Rosa’s internal conflict, manifesting as she navigates her fabricated memories.

Suspended between her present reality and this invented past, Rosa imagines a reunion with her mother. This imagined encounter transcends a mere longing for connection, evolving into a potent attempt at personal healing and reconciliation, not just with her mother’s story, but with her own understanding of self and identity.

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Filmmaking debut and cast

The film’s compelling narrative is brought to life through the performances of its lead actresses, Verônica Cavalcanti and Luciana Souza, whose portrayals anchor the experimental nature of the storytelling. Marques’ debut behind the camera is characterized by a distinctive vision, blending a deeply personal story with a formally ambitious approach.

Marques’ direction offers a nuanced look into the psychological ramifications of intergenerational trauma and the power of imagination as a tool for emotional processing. The choice of the Forum section at Berlinale perfectly aligns with the film’s experimental ethos.

Strategic festival presence before national release

The selection for the Berlin Film Festival provides an invaluable international platform for “Fiz um Foguete Imaginando que Você Vinha.” This exposure is crucial for securing global distribution and generating critical acclaim that can significantly boost its profile.

The film is slated for its Brazilian premiere in October 2025, following its prestigious festival run. The anticipation generated by its Berlinale presence is expected to create substantial buzz for its domestic release, positioning it as a must-see for audiences seeking thought-provoking cinema.

The film’s themes resonate broadly, touching upon universal experiences of family, memory, and the complex paths to understanding one’s heritage. Its bold narrative and experimental structure contribute to the rich tapestry of contemporary Brazilian cinema gaining increasing recognition on the world stage.