Brazilian Director Finds Inspiration in Goa's Vibrant Casino Culture for Acclaimed Film 'The Blue Trail'

Image Source: Internet

Goa's casino culture has inspired a Brazilian film, 'The Blue Trail', which premiered at the 56th International Film Festival of India. Directed by Gabriel Mascaro, the dystopian drama follows 77-year-old Tereza as she defies a government order for relocation and embarks on a personal journey through the Amazon. Mascaro credits Goa's casino scene for sparking several key elements in his film, including the inclusion of a casino as a central plot point. He was inspired by the vibrant culture during his visit six years ago, where he was writing the screenplay. The film, which won the Grand Jury Prize at the 2025 Berlinale, has garnered praise from audiences worldwide. Mascaro aims to highlight the right to dream and the inspiring role an elderly person can play. He believes the movie is a universal tale of freedom and the pursuit of one's dreams. Having also screened his earlier film 'Divine Love' at IFFI, Mascaro hopes to return to India soon. He appreciates the similarities between India and Brazil, citing their rich diverse cultures and similar architecture. Mascaro is a fan of Indian cinema, particularly indie films emerging from the country. The director has praised films like Chaitanya Tamhane's 'Court' and Payal Kapadia's 'All We Imagine as Light', highlighting the strength of Indian independent cinema. He believes that the country's diverse cultures and languages make it a unique and inspiring place. The success of 'The Blue Trail' at IFFI is a testament to the power of cross-cultural exchange and the inspiration that can be found in different parts of the world.