How Good to See You Alive

Synopsis

How Good to See You Alive (original title: Que Bom Te Ver Viva) is a powerful 1989 Brazilian drama directed by Lúcia Murat, featuring Irene Ravache in a pivotal role. The film delves into the harrowing aftermath of Brazil’s military dictatorship, focusing on the lives of women who were tortured and imprisoned for their political activism. Through a mix of dramatized reenactments and testimonial-style storytelling, it exposes the resilience and courage of these women as they confront their past trauma while striving to reclaim their identities and heal. The film is a stirring tribute to survival and human dignity amidst repression and injustice.

Cast

• 

  Irene Ravache

• Maria do Carmo Brito

  Self

• Estrela Bohadana

  Self

• Maria Luiza Garcia Rosa

  Self

• Rosalina Santa Cruz

  Self

• Criméia Almeida

  Self

Reviews

How Good to See You Alive has been generally well-received by critics for its poignant and unflinching portrayal of political imprisonment and torture. On IMDb, it holds a solid rating of 7.1/10, reflecting positive viewer responses that highlight the film's emotional depth and historical relevance. Critics have praised director Lúcia Murat for blending narrative drama with documentary elements, creating a unique cinematic experience that educates and moves the audience. The performances, especially by Irene Ravache, are often singled out for their authenticity and intensity. However, some reviews mention that the film's style and pacing might not appeal to viewers seeking conventional storytelling or lighter content. Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic do not have aggregated scores for this film, likely due to its niche subject and age, but its legacy as an important work in Latin American political cinema is strongly recognized in academic discussions and film retrospectives. The film continues to be relevant for its frank depiction of human rights abuses and the strength of those who resist.

See also

Inception

Avatar

Fight Club

Forrest Gump