Ilda Santiago, the artistic director of Brazil’s leading Rio Film Festival, has announced the opening and closing films for this year’s event. The festival will bookend its program with the Spanish-language drama La Bola Negra and the Brazilian feature Club Kid</em.</p>
In addition to the new slate of titles, Santiago is expanding the festival’s Premiere Brasil section, a move that will showcase more domestic productions and broaden the festival’s reach within the country’s vibrant film industry.
When asked about her curatorial approach, Santiago said, “I don’t want a festival by the book.” The statement reflects her reputation for selecting bold, unconventional works that challenge audiences and push the boundaries of contemporary cinema.
Known for her distinctive style—often seen in auburn hair, large glasses and outfits from up‑and‑coming Brazilian designers—Santiago has become a familiar face at major film festivals worldwide. Her programming choices are widely regarded as a barometer for emerging trends in global cinema.
The Rio Film Festival, held annually in Brazil’s cultural capital, is a key platform for both international and local filmmakers. Santiago’s latest lineup promises to keep the festival’s reputation for daring, high‑quality programming intact.
<small>Source: Variety — read the original story there.</small>
