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Brazilian Film Pioneer Orlando Senna Dies at 86
12 Jun
Summary
- Orlando Senna, acclaimed filmmaker, died at 86 from pneumonia.
- He co-directed the seminal 1974 film 'Iracema: Uma Transa Amazonica'.
- Senna held significant roles in film education and national audiovisual policy.
Renowned Brazilian filmmaker Orlando Senna passed away on June 9 at the age of 86 due to pneumonia in Rio de Janeiro. Senna achieved widespread recognition for co-directing the impactful 1974 feature "Iracema: Uma Transa Amazonica" with Jorge Bodanzky. This film is often lauded as a significant work in Brazilian cinema.
The film "Iracema" depicted harsh realities, following a young girl who becomes a prostitute and travels along the Trans-Amazonian Highway, offering a stark portrayal of ecological damage and the plight of Indigenous populations. Senna also contributed to Hector Babenco's debut film, "King of the Night."
Beyond his directorial achievements, Senna was a pivotal figure in film education and policy. He headed Cuba's San Antonio de los Banos International School of Film and TV from 1991 to 1994. Later, he served Brazil's audiovisual sector as head of the National Audiovisual Secretariat and general director of TV Brasil.
