Shanghai – Walking through the streets of Shanghai, Brazilian filmmaker Petra Costa feels like she’s stepped into a sci-fi movie. Sleek skyscrapers tower above, and zero-emission new-energy vehicles zip past, painting a picture of a futuristic metropolis.
“It’s astonishing,” Costa remarked during an interview at the Shanghai International Film Festival. “The last time my mother visited China was in the 1980s, and she described a country that lagged behind Brazil in many ways. Seeing how much has changed in such a short time is truly remarkable.”
Costa, a jury member at this year’s festival, shared her admiration for China’s rapid development. “The progress here is not just in technology but in the arts and cinema as well,” she said. “There’s a vibrancy that’s inspiring to witness.”
As members of the BRICS nations, Costa sees a unique opportunity for China and Brazil to deepen their cultural ties. “I hope to see more collaborations between our countries’ filmmakers,” she expressed. “There’s so much we can learn from each other, and storytelling is a powerful way to bridge our cultures.”
The director believes that by working together, filmmakers can address global challenges and share diverse perspectives. “Youth in both our nations are the future,” she added. “Through cinema, we can inspire them to shape a better world.”
With her eyes set on future projects, Costa is eager to explore stories that connect the people of Brazil and China. “This festival has opened my eyes to new possibilities,” she said with a smile. “I can’t wait to see what we create next.”
