Gugu’s World

Gugu dreams of becoming a footballer, but he also loves dancing and dressing up – something his father does not approve of. When his grandmother, who is bringing him up, begins to lose her memory, Gugu does everything in his power to save their relationship and their shared world.

Twelve-year-old Gugu, growing up in a Brazilian village under the care of his grandmother Dilma, bridges worlds that many would find difficult to reconcile. The boy has the chance of a career in football, yet he also loves dancing and dressing up. His grandmother gives him complete freedom of expression and shields him from criticism, but his strict father expects him to fit traditional ideas of masculinity. Unfortunately, Dilma is gradually losing her memory because of illness, and Gugu is very reluctant to move in with his father. Will he manage to save the world he knows so well?

This is a moving and tender story about growing up and about the importance of having a place to belong.

The film is recommended by Empowering Children Foundation.

Did you know that…

… the film won the prestigious Crystal Bear award at Berlinale’s Generation Kplus section? In their statement, the jury members emphasised that they “were deeply moved by each character’s emotions. This gripping story drew us in as if we were part of it”.