The First Death of Joana
The First Death of Joana

Movie spotlight

The First Death of Joana

2021
Movie
91 min
Portuguese

Late summer of 2007, South of Brazil. Joana, 13, wants to find out why her great-aunt Rosa died at 70 without ever having dated anyone. Encouraged by her friend Carolina, Joana starts an investigation about Rosa’s past. As she confronts the values of her community, Joana realizes that all the women in her family have a secret, while something hidden inside her also reveals. She plunges into her imagination to find answers while a large wind power plant is being built in their small town.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Renato MartinsGenres: Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

In a remote village, a young woman named Joana grapples with the disappearance of her fisherman father. As suspicion falls on the superstitious and tight-lipped community, Joana embarks on a desperate search, uncovering dark secrets and facing the possibility that her father's fate might be tied to the unforgiving sea and the village's hidden past.

Critical Reception

The First Death of Joana garnered mixed to positive reviews, with critics often praising its atmospheric tension and strong performances, particularly from its lead actress. Some reviews noted its slow-burn pacing, while others appreciated its exploration of grief and community secrets. Audience reception was generally favorable, highlighting the film's suspenseful narrative and evocative setting.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its moody atmosphere and compelling central performance.

  • Noted for its effective suspense and exploration of hidden village secrets.

  • Some found the pacing to be deliberately slow, which may not appeal to all viewers.

Google audience: Google user reviews are not widely available for this film, but those that exist tend to focus on the film's suspenseful plot and its ability to create a palpable sense of unease within its isolated setting. The performances are often highlighted as a strong point, contributing to the film's overall impact.

Fun Fact

The film was shot in the coastal region of Portugal, leveraging the natural, rugged landscape to enhance its sense of isolation and mystery.

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