Body Electric (2017)
A tender Brazilian drama about desire, identity, and human connection among São Paulo factory workers.
Body Electric - Movie Information
- Original Title: Corpo Elétrico
- Release Year: 2017
- Directed by: Marcelo Caetano
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Original Language: Portuguese
- Spoken Languages: Portuguese
- Release Date (Theatrical): August 17, 2017 (Brazil - 16), October 16, 2017 (United Kingdom), May 16, 2018 (France)
- Production Companies: África Filmes, Desbun Filmes, Plateau Produções
- Production Countries: Brazil
Body Electric - Plot
Elias is a handsome young deputy manager in a garment factory in São Paulo. When he's not working, he enjoys casual encounters in the big city. The arrival of a young African, Fernando, on the production line piques his interest and Elias finds himself increasingly drawn into socialising with his work colleagues.
Where to Watch Body Electric
Looking for where to watch Body Electric?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Body Electric - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Marcelo Caetano
Main Cast
- Kelner Macêdo
- Lucas Andrade
- Welket Bungué
- Ana Flavia Cavalcanti
- Daniel Torres
- Dani Nefussi
- Emerson Ferreira
- Ernani Sanchez
- Evandro Cavalcante
- Georgina Castro
Writers
- Marcelo Caetano
- Hilton Lacerda
- Gabriel Domingues
Producers
- Beto Tibiriçá
- Marcelo Caetano
Body Electric - FAQs
What is Body Electric about?
Body Electric follows Elias, a charming young deputy manager at a garment factory in São Paulo. Between casual city encounters and workplace dynamics, his world shifts when Fernando, a young African man, joins the production line. The film tenderly explores desire, identity, and human connection in contemporary Brazil.
Is Body Electric an LGBTQ film?
Yes, Body Electric is firmly rooted in LGBTQ storytelling. It centers on Elias, a gay man navigating desire and intimacy in São Paulo's working-class world. Director Marcelo Caetano brings a warm, non-judgmental gaze to queer Brazilian life, making it a standout entry in contemporary LGBTQ cinema.
Where can you stream Body Electric?
You can stream Body Electric on Dekkoo, Troma NOW, and Dekkoo Amazon Channel (subscription). It's also available free with ads on Fandango at Home Free, Cineverse, Tubi TV, and Fawesome. If you prefer to own it, Amazon Video and Fandango At Home offer rental and purchase options.
Who directed Body Electric and what is his style?
Marcelo Caetano directed Body Electric, his debut feature film. His style is intimate and observational, favoring naturalistic performances and a loose, sensory rhythm over conventional plot structure. Caetano captures the textures of São Paulo's urban life with a warmth and openness that feels genuinely lived-in.
Who are the main actors in Body Electric?
The cast is led by Kelner Macêdo as Elias, with Welket Bungué as Fernando and Lucas Andrade as Wellington. The ensemble also includes Ana Flavia Cavalcanti, Daniel Torres, Dani Nefussi, and Linn da Quebrada, whose presence adds a vibrant, queer cultural dimension to the film.
Is Body Electric based on a true story?
Body Electric is not based on a specific true story. It's an original screenplay by Marcelo Caetano, Hilton Lacerda, and Gabriel Domingues. That said, the film draws deeply from real social textures — São Paulo's working-class communities, queer nightlife, and the everyday rhythms of factory workers — giving it a vivid documentary feel.
How was Body Electric received by critics?
Body Electric earned strong praise on the international festival circuit, celebrated for its sensory richness and humanist warmth. Critics highlighted Caetano's confident debut direction and the film's refreshingly non-dramatic approach to queer identity. It was particularly admired for its joyful, body-positive portrayal of desire and community in Brazil.
What are some films similar to Body Electric?
If Body Electric resonated with you, try Brokeback Mountain (2005), My Own Private Idaho (1991), or Mala Noche (1987) for queer cinema classics. For something closer in spirit and tone, Seashore (2015) and Summer Storm (2004) share its intimate, coming-of-age sensibility. The Boys in the Band (2020) is also worth exploring.
More About Body Electric
Explore further details about Body Electric on these authoritative sources.