Acclaimed Brazilian Director Rosane Svartman Tackles Menopause and Aging in New Film "Garota"

In October 2025, acclaimed Brazilian writer-director Rosane Svartman is partnering once again with Elo Studios for the new film "Garota" ("Girl" in literal translation). The collaboration comes on the heels of their recent project "(Des)controle," which had its world premiere at the Rio Film Festival earlier this year.

"Garota" follows the story of a 52-year-old woman whose life is turned upside down when she loses her job, enters menopause, and begins caring for an older dog abandoned by her mother. As she starts posting about the dog online, the woman finds herself navigating the tricky digital world while also dealing with the complexities of aging.

Svartman says she was "immediately" drawn to the project when Elo Studios CEO Sabrina Wagon presented it to her, as she believes in the importance of bringing to light the stories of women who feel invisible. Wagon explains that "Garota" was born out of a prize created by Elo Studios in partnership with Telecine at the Cabíria Screenplay Festival, which awarded the best plot-line by an up-and-coming screenwriter. Adriana Calabró's winning idea was then developed further with the help of seasoned screenwriter Flávia Guimarães.

The new film solidifies Elo Studios' interest in stories penned by Brazilian female directors, such as Susanna Lira's "Salve Rosa," a co-production with Paramount Pictures that also premiered at this year's Rio Film Festival. Svartman believes this trend reflects a growing interest in the experiences of women over 50, who are often underrepresented on screen despite their vibrant lives and significant economic power.