A Dog’s Will (2000) – A Hilarious Brazilian Comedy About Friendship and Loyalty

Director: Guel Arraes
Writers: Guel Arraes, Adriana Falcão, João Falcão
Main Cast: Matheus Nachtergaele as Chicó, Selton Mello as João Grilo, Denise Fraga as Rosinha, Lima Duarte as Bispo, Diogo Vilela as Padre João, Virginia Cavendish as Dora, Fernanda Montenegro as The Voice of God
Music Director: Marco Antônio Guimarães
Director of Photography: Adrian Teijido
Producers: Guel Arraes, Cacá Diegues, Renata Almeida Magalhães

A Dog’s Will, directed by Guel Arraes, is a Brazilian comedy that takes place in the 1920s in a small town in the Brazilian countryside. The film follows the misadventures of Chicó (Matheus Nachtergaele) and João Grilo (Selton Mello), two poor friends who find themselves caught up in a series of absurd situations.

Chicó is a cowardly and imaginative man, while João Grilo is a cunning and quick-witted trickster. When a local bishop (Lima Duarte) dies, the duo decides to take advantage of the situation by fooling the townspeople into believing that the bishop is still alive. They create a series of miracles and use their wit to deceive the gullible villagers.

As the story unfolds, Chicó and João Grilo encounter a colorful cast of characters, including Rosinha (Denise Fraga), a beautiful and strong-willed woman who becomes the object of their affection. The duo also crosses paths with a corrupt priest (Diogo Vilela) and a mysterious woman named Dora (Virginia Cavendish).

The central themes of A Dog’s Will revolve around friendship, loyalty, and the power of storytelling. The film explores the bond between Chicó and João Grilo, showcasing their unwavering support for each other in the face of adversity. It also highlights the importance of using humor and imagination as a means of survival.

Upon its release, A Dog’s Will received critical acclaim for its clever humor, vibrant performances, and unique storytelling. The film won numerous awards, including Best Film at the Brazilian Academy Awards and the Audience Award at the Miami International Film Festival. It was also Brazil’s official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 73rd Academy Awards.

A Dog’s Will has left a lasting impact on Brazilian cinema, becoming one of the most beloved and iconic comedies in the country’s history. Its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and satirical take on Brazilian society have made it a cultural touchstone.

For potential viewers, A Dog’s Will is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates clever comedy and heartwarming stories of friendship. The film’s unique blend of humor, satire, and social commentary makes it an entertaining and thought-provoking experience.

“When I die, I want to be buried with my ass up so that everyone can kiss it!” – João Grilo