Joelma 23rd Floor

Synopsis

Joelma 23rd Floor (original title: Joelma 23º Andar) is a 1979 Brazilian drama directed by Cláudio Cunha and featuring Beth Goulart in a compelling lead role. The film delves into the psychological and societal tensions experienced by characters residing in a high-rise building in São Paulo. Against the urban backdrop, the story explores themes of isolation, interpersonal conflict, and the fragility of human connections amid modern city life. With a nuanced portrayal of its characters, the narrative unfolds through intense drama and an intimate look at social dynamics within the claustrophobic vertical environment of the Joelma building.

Cast

• 

  Beth Goulart

  Lucimar

• 

  Liana Duval

  Lucinda

• Chico Xavier

  Chico Xavier

• Vilma Camargo

• 

  Oswaldo Cirillo

• Marly de Fátima

Reviews

Joelma 23rd Floor has received mixed reviews since its release in 1979. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 5.8/10 based on user feedback, reflecting a divided audience reception. Critics have praised the film for its atmospheric portrayal of urban alienation and Beth Goulart's strong performance, noting her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety. However, some reviewers have pointed out that the pacing can be slow and the narrative somewhat disjointed, which may detract from full audience engagement. For instance, Brazilian cinema forums commend the film's ambition and thematic depth but acknowledge its niche appeal, which might not resonate with viewers seeking conventional storytelling. While lacking a score on major aggregator sites such as Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, the film enjoys a cult status among aficionados of Brazilian cinema from the 1970s, who appreciate its artistic ambition despite its technical limitations. Overall, Joelma 23rd Floor is regarded as a thoughtful exploration of urban psychology, albeit one that requires patience and an appreciation for a somber, character-driven atmosphere.

See also

Interstellar

Joker

Titanic

Inside Out