Ana Brito e Cunha needs almost no introduction. She is one of the Portuguese actresses with a grand career in performing arts and television. This year she accepted the challenge to be a judge in FIFF'11, an invitation she feels very proud of and another step in an already long artistic career.
From what you saw as a judge at the film festival, what is your opinion about the work presented in general?
Ana Brito e Cunha: This was the first time I've been a jury in this kind of competition, which to me is a privilege. I think the quality of the festival was much higher than expected, and this is the 6th edition and I was aware of a primacy for quality, now that I was more on the inside. I feel immensely proud to realize that the quality of the artists present was very good indeed. And also the fact that it allows an interesting international exchange of views on this art and be very comprehensive one.
How you're invited?
ABC: Through the director of the Festival, Henrique Teixeira. Last year I presented the closing ceremony. This year I was sworn. What honors me greatly and there this allowed me the opportunity to broaden my knowledge and experience.
If you could be a movie actress (regardless of the festival) what character would you choose? And why?
ABC: The female character of the movie of Matias Bize from Chile, "La vida de los peces," also the winning film, because the role has an amazing consistency, history and above all because I love the work and how director tells the story of these characters.
As an actress how do you see the evolution of Portuguese cinema? Do you think there is progress in the right direction or not? What do you think it needs to win this impulse?
ABC: I think it has asserted itself more and more, little by little, we must be aware that it is a market that still has a lot to grow and develop to do, it is still somewhat restricted, but it is also undisputed that each time we have the best artists and quality of work. It should be better supported and provide space and opportunities for renewal. It is no accident that throughout the world will hear about some Portuguese involved in big productions, whether dependent or independent features.
Over the more than twenty-year career, it appears that you choose the comedy at the expense of more serious roles, why? Do you feel more comfortable?
ABC: It's happening. I feel good in comedy, although it is very difficult. I love the groundwork for serious texts. But it has been chance.
I saw you many times in the theater recently in a play here in Madera, do you think that the theater is in good health? Is there a public? Or has attracted audiences due to public figures?
ABC: There are public and good, but like any culture, greater support is needed to do to reach people and the quality it deserves. I think the artistic skill is getting better. Portugal and its artists have a country with a very enriching history and cultures and as such, more and deserves special attention.
In your career you have worked in various artistic strands, such as television or the theater, which is your favorite?
ABC: Today, these are all important as an expression and learning, it is indisputable that for me the theater is, well ... my room, my everyday work, study and growth, but increasingly fascinates me the camera, the film, the intersection of work with different techniques.
How do you see the action of the state in terms of culture?
ABC: I see that we should not underestimate or ignore our culture. We have a country and history, as I stated earlier, very rich and the moment that we are moving is perfect for giving the example that we have great artists, poets, navigators, and many other Portuguese who led Portugal to the world.
Why you call yourself bambolina?
ABC: I like the sound of the word, its meaning. Bambolina defines the line between audience and stage space. She is the gateway to the dream.
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