Acclaimed Brazilian director Carolina Markowicz, known for 'Charcoal,' is set to begin shooting her latest project, 'The Funeral,' next week in Brazil. Initial production will start in São Paulo before moving to Fordlândia, a city conceived by Henry Ford along the Tapajós River in the Amazon. The film is produced by Biônica Filmes in collaboration with Portugal’s O Som e a Fúria, with Sony Pictures handling distribution in Brazil.
Star-Studded Cast
'The Funeral' features a prominent cast led by Maeve Jinkings, known for 'Neighboring Sounds.' Joining her are Yara de Novaes ('Malu'), Camila Márdila ('The Second Mother'), and Julio Andrade ('One Against All'). In addition, Cannes Best Actress winner Sandra Corveloni ('Linha de Passe') will make a special appearance.
Exploring Family and Privilege
The narrative follows an upper-class Brazilian family whose equilibrium is disrupted by the unexpected arrival of an illegitimate daughter at the patriarch's funeral. Markowicz's original script intertwines drama and dark satire, addressing themes of privilege, inheritance, and the elite's efforts to maintain appearances. 'What happens when a stranger appears not only claiming, but actually being entitled to, a share of the inheritance? And what if the inheritance is not only financial, but emotional as well?' Markowicz remarked, highlighting the film's thematic depth.
Accolades and Recognition
Markowicz's previous works have been showcased at major international festivals, making significant strides for Brazilian cinema. Her film 'The Orphan' was the first Brazilian film to win the Queer Palm at Cannes, and she was the first Brazilian director to receive the Tribute Award for Emerging Talent at the Toronto International Film Festival. Her films 'Charcoal' and 'Toll' have established her as a leading figure in Brazil's new wave of internationally recognized filmmakers.
Development and Awards
'The Funeral' was selected for the 2024 Script Lab by the Torino Film Lab, earning the White Mirror Award for screenplays addressing environmental and social themes. It also participated in the 2024 Pop Up Residence, mentored by Romanian producer Ada Solomon, and was featured in the 2025 Berlinale Co-Production Market.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/global/carolina-markowicz-the-funeral-maeve-jinkings-bionica-1236750259/
