“Gugu’s world”, interview with director Allan Deberton

February 19, 2026

Allan Deberton with “Gugu's world” invites audiences into a universe of childhood dreams and family bonds

"Gugu's world", interview with director Allan Deberton Cristiana Palmieri

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Presented at the 76th Berilnale, “Gugu’ s world” explores the innocence, dreams, and emotional bonds of a young boy. The story highlights universal themes of family, love, and bravery, making it resonate across diverse cultures and ages. Set in a small Brazilian community, “Gugu’s world” by director Allan Deberton offers a vivid glimpse into childhood innocence and the protective love of a grandmother, emphasizing the importance of connection and personal growth.

Its cultural significance

“Gugu’ s world” centers on Gugu, a 12-year-old who aspires to become a football player amid the challenges faced by his family and community. The director Allan Deberton emphasizes that the emotional core of the film transcends regional borders, showcasing love, family, and courage that resonate worldwide. The setting in rural Brazil becomes a microcosm reflecting broader human experiences, illustrating how local stories can appeal to global audiences.

Capturing emotional bonds and storytelling through images

One of the film’s central elements is the relationship between Gugu and his grandmother Dilma. Director Allan Deberton prioritizes visual storytelling to communicate nuanced feelings and unspoken emotions through powerful imagery. The cast, chosen from over 600 children, brings authenticity and sensitivity to narrative arc of the film.

Music as a reflection of “Gugu’ s world”

The soundtrack combines classic hits with contemporary Brazilian music, emphasizing universal themes through a uniquely Brazilian musical palette.

Plot

Gugu is almost twelve and dreams of becoming a football player. He is growing up in a small community near the Araújo Lima reservoir that is slowly drying up to expose the ghostly remains of a submerged town. Gugu is cared for by his grandmother Dilma, whose warmth and open-mindedness gives him the space to simply be himself. The pair share a quiet but powerful bond that shields them from the disapproval of Gugu’s father and the community around them. As old memories resurface, subtle changes begin to unsettle their routine. Dilma becomes increasingly frail. Worrying that he might lose the only safe space he has ever known, Gugu grows ever more determined to keep their world intact.

Written by: Cristiana Palmieri

Guest

Allan Deberton

Film

Gugu's World

Festival

Berlinale

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“Gugu’s world”, interview with director Allan Deberton