Home / Arts and Entertainment / Trans Coming-of-Age Film 'She-Devil' Explores Identity
Trans Coming-of-Age Film 'She-Devil' Explores Identity
12 Aug
Summary
- Film adaptation of Eli Lemos de Oliveira's autofiction book.
- Explores a young trans man's complex relationship with masculinity.
- Shirley Cruz stars as the influential Aunt lara.
A new feature film, "The She-Devil," is currently in development, with a related short film, "The Death of the She-Devil," nearing completion. Both projects star Shirley Cruz as the pivotal character Aunt Iara. The feature film is an adaptation of Eli Lemos de Oliveira's autofiction book.
The narrative centers on an 11-year-old trans boy named Araí in the 1990s, navigating a working-class Rio de Janeiro community. He develops an obsession with an imaginary neighborhood killer, eventually identifying with the villain.
Director Clara Ferrer describes the film's aesthetic as "contemporary working-class baroque," aiming to immerse viewers in the protagonist's subjective experience. The story explores themes of identity, masculinity, and the profound influence of Aunt Iara, a transgressive female figure offering guidance.
Amina Sophia Nogueira, executive producer for Capivara Movies, highlighted the story's universal themes, stating, "Everyone had, or wishes they'd had, an Aunt lara when they were young." The film seeks to balance artistic ambition with broad audience appeal.
