‘I AM CAPTIVATED BY PEOPLE AND NARRATIVES THAT SHOW HOW EACH PERSON CAN MAKE A MEANINGFUL IMPACT IN THE WORLD.’

Born in Brazil and raised in Germany, actress Cristina do Rego speaks to Discover Germany, Austria & Switzerland about the recent election results in her home country, her latest film projects and much, much more.

NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: LEONIE HANDRICK

DISCOVER GERMANY: You were born in Brazil and moved to Germany as a child. To what extent do your Brazilian roots still shape you today?

Cristina do Rego: Brazil is and will always be my roots and my home. I'm at home in Germany, but Brazil is a part of me. Most of my family lives there and I need to recharge my batteries there regularly to feel like myself again.

DISCOVER GERMANY: Let’s chat about uprooting: Do you now feel more German than Brazilian?

Cristina do Rego: It is very difficult to answer this question. Nevertheless, it is now simply the case that I have built up an entire life, a career, and many long-term friendships in Germany. I have accepted that I have both cultures within me, and that both countries are home to me. At some point in my twenties, I understood that I don’t have to choose one or the other.

DISCOVER GERMANY: What do you think of the outcome of the election in your home country?

Cristina do Rego: I am infinitely relieved, I have hope for Brazil again, which I have not recognized in many aspects in recent years.

DISCOVER GERMANY: You recently came out as a member of the queer community. How has this changed your life?

Cristina do Rego: My day-to-day life hasn't changed, other than making me even more confident. So far, my professional life has only changed noticeably during occasions like these, where I find myself being asked about my private life more than before, or that I am being more and more considered for queer roles, as well.

DISCOVER GERMANY: Today you live in Berlin. Why is this city your adopted home? What makes it so special to you?

Cristina do Rego: Berlin happened to me, and I am very grateful for that. In my early twenties, I had to relocate to Berlin for a project, although I was happy in Cologne, where I lived before. Berlin has slowly conquered my heart. There is an indescribable sense of expansive freedom here that resonates deeply with me. The city and its people have an informal and non-committal vibe around them, which can be challenging, but the city still never fails to captivate me.

DISCOVER GERMANY: Is acting your dream job or has there ever been another?

Cristina do Rego: It's still my dream job after more than 20 years. Of course, some things are different: the role of social media, for example. Still, I'm always very fulfilled when I'm on set.

DISCOVER GERMANY: How do you prepare for the different roles? Are there certain rituals that you like to include?

Cristina do Rego: I work a lot with music and curate playlists for my roles. Additionally, each role I play over an extended duration has its own distinctive fragrance. Then, of course, all the classic desk work, such as memorizing the lines of a script.

DISCOVER GERMANY: Your feature film TRAUZEUGEN will come out in German cinemas on September 14th. What can viewers look forward to?

Cristina do Rego: It is a delightful romantic comedy featuring stunning visuals and brilliant performances by the actors. The film also includes several fantastic guest appearances, including Kurt Krömer. I assure you; this is a must-see that you shouldn't miss!

DISCOVER GERMANY: Other wishes and dreams for the future?

Cristina do Rego: After the events of the past few years, it seems we have all become somewhat more humble, haven't we? Like most people, I wish for a quieter and safer world. My personal aspirations are not extravagant either: I find happiness in being able to continue working for many more years. And of course, I want my loved ones to be healthy.

DISCOVER GERMANY: A new fiction documentary about the life of Aracy de Carvalho is coming out soon, and you play the woman who helped many Jewish people escape from the Nazis during World War II. What can viewers look forward to?

Cristina do Rego: Personally, I find the docu-fiction format incredibly captivating because it enhances the accessibility to real-life characters. It is fascinating to discover that these individuals actually existed and personally experienced the events portrayed in the documentary. A realistic presentation of the story and its people can bring the audience remarkably close to the unfolding events.

DISCOVER GERMANY: How did this shoot shape you as a Brazilian?

Cristina do Rego: It's very special for me to perform in my mother tongue, especially in a

8 June 2023

20:15 on ARTE historical story and a character that I felt very connected to. My aspiration was very high to do justice to her as she was a brave and genuine individual who acknowledged her own privileges. I find that impressive and it was an honor for me to embody her.

DISCOVER GERMANY: Why is this documentary so important?

Cristina do Rego: On one hand, it is always crucial to address and discuss this period in history. On the other hand, I am captivated by people and narratives that show how each person can make a meaningful impact in the world. It is long overdue for Aracy de Carvalho to be acknowledged as the heroine she never aspired to become, yet undeniably was.

DISCOVER GERMANY: What else can we look forward to from you in 2023?

Cristina do Rego: In addition to working on some exciting feature films at the moment, I am thrilled about the release of the film Trauzeugen which will be in cinemas in September. I also love being part of Podcasts. I would like to recommend the mystery podcast Flüsterwelt (produced by Podstars) which is an exciting twist on the classic format. It´s out already!