Baby Review: An Astute Depiction of LGBTQ+ Brazilian Survivors Lost in the System
Capturing the urban restlessness and vibrancy of São Paulo, filmmaker Caetano's unflinching drama centres on those who inhabit the outskirts of an perpetually shifting metropolis. Newly freed from juvenile prison, 18-year-old Wellington (João Pedro Mariano) finds himself at a crossroads; deserted by his parents, the impressionable young man discovers refuge in the arms of others.
On an late-night excursion with his boisterous group of LGBTQ+ and gender non-conforming friends, Wellington crosses paths with Ronaldo (actor Ricardo Teodoro), a hunky, charismatic hustler more than twice his age. Bathed in the pulsating light of a adult movie theater, their initial encounter is physical and passionate, with an hint of risk. Ronaldo swiftly initiates Wellington to the underground scene of the sex trade and drug dealing.
A Study of Understanding Rather Than Sensationalism
The director portrays Wellington’s new life of crime with compassionate understanding instead of as a exploitative warning story. Now going by the name of Baby, he enters his commercial trysts with cocky bravado and endearing innocence. To his clients, Wellington lends not only his youth and his body, but also moments of care.
In the feverish excitement of São Paulo, overflowing with crowded backstreets and brightly painted facades, there’s a gnawing loneliness, as adrift individuals grasp at one another for fleeting joy.
"The streets might be riddled with risk, yet they are also the space where they can find their own family, too."
A Complex Relationship of Love and Control
Ronaldo is both a lover and a sheltering paternal presence to Wellington, but their bond is sabotaged by jealousy and financial instability. Threats from nefarious characters in the underworld pale in comparison to the anxiety about government monitoring and jail time, represented by the constant sight of police officers in the area.
Baby is particularly impactful as a perceptive study of the forgotten souls who have slipped through the gaps the established structure. The film ultimately serves as a moving examination into making ends meet, found community, and the pursuit of self within a harsh urban landscape.
