Marcelo Caetano's 'Baby' Earns Acclaim as a Bold Queer Film Highlighting Brazil's Marginalized Communities

The coming-of-age drama intertwines personal and political themes, challenging far-right ideologies and celebrating underrepresented voices in São Paulo.

'Baby' follows the complex relationship between a young man recently released from prison and an older sex worker in São Paulo.
The film critiques Brazil's far-right policies under Bolsonaro, particularly the suppression of LGBTQ+ culture and funding.
Marcelo Caetano uses vibrant, chaotic visuals to reflect the contradictions and passion of Brazilian society.
The casting of lesser-known actors was a deliberate choice to challenge the homogeneity of Brazilian media and empower new voices.
São Paulo is portrayed as a dynamic character, emphasizing its socio-economic contrasts and the resilience of its marginalized communities.