O “significado” e os “movimentos” de Casas Marcadas: o impacto de um webdocumentário num Rio de Janeiro em transformação

This article analyses Casas Marcadas (in English, Marked Homes) (2012), a short film which presents a critical view on removals in the Morro da Providência favela in Rio de Janeiro. Although not originally produced for online distribution, the documentary was made available on YouTube and has a page on Facebook. It has also been shown at cineclubs, mostras (thematic film series or events), and festivals. To discuss the impact and effects of the short film, the article develops a conceptual framework inspired by David Whiteman’s “coalition model” and Brian T. Edwards’ work on the circulation of cultural works. Edwards’ approach allows for a connection to be made between the content of the film (its “meaning”) and its repercussion (its “motion”). Following Edwards’ terminology, the analysis of the meaning of Casas Marcadas reflects on the film’s use of historical images related to removals and urban transformations in Rio. In relation to “movements”, the article tracks the digital and physical circulation of the film and discusses references to it on websites, in academic texts and derivative works. Based on this cultural studies analysis, the article argues that the film had a series of micro-impacts and managed to influence the debate about removals and urban transformations in Rio de Janeiro in certain social and political circuits.