Catarina Vasconcelos

Catarina Vasconcelos, born in Lisbon in 1986, is a prominent figure in contemporary cinema. She completed her studies at the Fine Arts Academy in Lisbon before relocating to London to obtain her Master’s degree from the esteemed Royal College of Art. Her debut film, “Metáfora ou a Tristeza Virada do Avesso” (Metaphor or Sadness Inside Out), emerged from her final project and premiered at the renowned Cinema du Reel in 2014, where it garnered the award for Best International Short Film. This poignant work went on to receive accolades at several prestigious festivals, including the Montreal International Documentary Festival, where it won the Best International Medium Length award, as well as screenings at DokLeipzig, the Moscow International Film Festival, and Doclisboa.

Vasconcelos's first feature film, “A Metamorfose dos Pássaros” (The Metamorphosis of Birds), made its debut in the Encounters section of the Berlinale in 2020, further establishing her as a significant voice in filmmaking. Through her innovative storytelling and artistic vision, she has captured audiences worldwide, contributing richly to the landscape of modern cinema. Her works often explore themes of identity and emotion, resonating deeply with viewers and critics alike.