Reaching for the Moon is a biographical drama film that chronicles the relationship between the American poet Elizabeth Bishop and the Brazilian architect Lota de Macedo Soares. The movie is based on Carmen L. Oliveira's biography Rare and Commonplace Flowers: The Story of Elizabeth Bishop and Lota de Macedo Soares, and it is directed by Bruno Barreto.
The film stars Miranda Otto as Elizabeth Bishop, Glória Pires as Lota de Macedo Soares, and Tracy Middendorf as Mary. The movie is set in the 1950s and 1960s and takes place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and the United States.
The film explores the themes of love, passion, jealousy, and creativity. It portrays Bishop as a shy and reserved woman who is overwhelmed by the vibrant and sensuous Brazilian culture. Lota, on the other hand, is portrayed as a confident and ambitious woman who is determined to make a name for herself in the male-dominated field of architecture.
The relationship between Bishop and Lota starts off rocky, with Lota initially being dismissive of Bishop's poetry and reserved nature. However, as they spend more time together, they grow closer and eventually become romantically involved. The film depicts their relationship as a ménage à trois with Mary, Bishop's college friend, who becomes jealous of Lota's affections towards Bishop.
The movie also explores Lota's struggle with mental illness and her frustration with the oppressive political regime in Brazil. She pours her energy into designing Parque do Flamengo, a large-scale urban park that becomes her life's work. Bishop, meanwhile, takes a teaching job in the United States, and the women's relationship begins to deteriorate.
The film reaches its climax with the military coup of 1964, which brings turmoil to Brazil and separates Bishop and Lota. Bishop's poignant poetry is featured throughout the film, providing insight into her thoughts and emotions.
Reaching for the Moon is a beautifully shot and emotionally charged film that offers a glimpse into the lives of two remarkable women whose love and creativity transcended borders and cultural differences.