Olinda’s Golden Arches (Os Arcos Dourados de Olinda)

A film still from Olinda’s Golden Arches shows three children standing side-by-side inside a McDonald's, looking forward and holding up red Happy Meal trays with drinks and food boxes. From left to right, the first child smiles brightly, another poses confidently, and the third looks at the camera with a more serious expression. Behind them, a large promotional display shows Ronald McDonald.

In the early 2000s, amidst the political fervor of the city of Olinda, an unusual clash unfolded. The capitalist giant McDonald’s prepared its arrival, while a communist was ascending as a favorite for the mayoralty. The people of Olinda were about to witness a late Cold War and take sides. What made Olinda known as the first city in the world to bankrupt a McDonald’s?

Screenings

In Person

Friday, August 711:30AM EDTThe Wilma Theater

Virtual

Availability BeginsFriday, August 73:00PM EDT

Directors Spotlight

Douglas Henrique

Director

Douglas Henrique is a director, cinematographer, and curator, currently pursuing a master’s degree at EQZE – Elías Querejeta Zine Eskola. ‘Olinda’s Golden Arches’ is his directorial debut short film. He has participated in international programs such as Berlinale Talents Rio and Berlinale Talents Buenos Aires.

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Year: 2025
Runtime: 24 minutes
Country: Brazil
Language: Portuguese
Director: Douglas Henrique
Screenwriters: Douglas Henrique, Arnon Hochman
Producers: Douglas Henrique, Pedro Ferreira
Executive Producer: Vinicius Gouveia
Cast: Giordano Castro
Editor: Douglas Henrique
Production Design: Clara Oliveira
Sound Design: Lázaro Uilgner
Premiere: North America