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Poster for Madame Satã

Madame Satã

Hustler, dreamer, devil, saint

2002 · 1h 45m · UNRATED Crime, Drama, History, Romance
Directed by Karim Aïnouz

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Overview

In the favelas of Rio de Janeiro of the 1930s, João Francisco dos Santos is several things — son of slaves, ex-convict, thug, homosexual and adopted father for a number of pariahs. João expresses himself on the stage of a cabaret as Madame Satã.

Director and cast

Critics on Rotten Tomatoes

Top critics, in their words

All reviews
60%
Tomatometer
Fresh

Often captivating.

Liam Lacey, Globe and Mail
Rotten

A myopic, histrionic picture that never lets us know why this legendary character is legendary, and worthy of our attention.

Erik Lundegaard, Seattle Times
Fresh

Director Karim Ainouz's film draws you in close.

Curt Fields, Washington Post
Fresh

It's a vivid, emotionally charged snapshot that makes no apologies or excuses for Madame's behavior and lifestyle.

Chris Vognar, Dallas Morning News
Rotten

Madame Sata is only a chapter in Francisco's story, and even that feels incomplete.

Wesley Morris, Boston Globe

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