The narrative follows 12-year-old Hugo (Marcelo Ribeiro), who is sent to live with his mother, Anna (Vera Fischer), in a palatial, high-class brothel. The house is a den of political maneuvering, where influential figures like Osmar (Tarcísio Meira) use the "young ladies" to secure power. As the adults play their dangerous games, Hugo becomes an silent observer of adult sexuality, eventually encountering Tamara (Xuxa Meneghel), a beautiful newcomer destined for a powerful politician. Why It Remains Controversial
In later years, particularly as Xuxa built a career focused on children, the film became a major source of scrutiny and professional discomfort for her, leading to efforts to suppress its distribution. Access and Historical Context
Vera Fischer, Tarcísio Meira, Xuxa Meneghel, Marcelo Ribeiro Antonio Meliande Historical Setting São Paulo, 1937 (Eve of the Estado Novo coup) Major Awards love strange love -1982- ok ru
For over 20 years, Xuxa fought a fierce legal battle to keep the film out of circulation, successfully banning its sale or rental in Brazil until the Supreme Court lifted the restriction in 2017.
Hugo is initially intimidated by the opulent but strange environment, but the "girls" of the house, including a young woman named Tamara , find his innocence fascinating and begin to tease and entice him. Why It Remains Controversial In later years, particularly
For those looking to watch this piece of cinematic history, the film is frequently available on (Odnoklassniki).
If you are researching the historical context of this film, it is helpful to note the following: For those looking to watch this piece of
: Optional audio overlays from Brazilian film historians explaining the political backdrop of the 1930s depicted in the film (the Estado Novo era ), which many viewers overlook in favor of the erotic elements Director’s Vision Spotlight : A featurette on director Walter Hugo Khouri
: The narrative pushes boundaries as the beautiful women of the house—including a young prostitute named Tamara—gradually involve Hugo in increasingly adult situations, culminating in explicit, taboo-shattering encounters that permanently shape his adult psyche. Technical Specifications
[Present Day] Elder Hugo visits the decaying mansion ──> Flashback to 1937 │ ┌──────────────────────────────────────────┴──────────────────────────────────────────┐ ▼ ▼ ▼ The Setting: A luxury brothel The Protagonist: 12-year-old Hugo The Catalyst: Political elite catering to the political elite. sent to live with his mother, Anna. indulging in excess before a coup.
: Set in 1937 São Paulo, it follows 12-year-old Hugo as he is sent to live with his mother in a luxurious mansion that functions as a political bordello. The film details his arrival and his growing awareness of his own sexuality within this environment.