From Beginning to End

From Beginning to End (Do Começo ao Fim) is a Brazilian romantic drama released in 2009, written and directed by Aluizio Abranches. The film gained attention for its controversial yet tender portrayal of an unconventional love story between two half-brothers, exploring themes of family bonds, sexuality, and the fluidity of love. Set primarily in Rio de Janeiro, the story examines love in its purest, most intimate form—unhindered by traditional moral boundaries.

The film opens by introducing Julieta, a loving and open-minded mother who raises two sons: Francisco, from her first marriage, and Thomás, from her second. From an early age, the boys share an unusually close connection, marked by affection and an unspoken understanding. Their relationship deepens over the years, nurtured by a family environment that, while aware of their closeness, does not impose strict limitations. This bond, tender and protective in childhood, gradually evolves into romantic and sexual intimacy as they reach adulthood.

When Julieta passes away unexpectedly, the two young men find themselves alone in the world. Rather than growing apart, the tragedy brings them even closer. They move in together and fully embrace their love, refusing to feel shame or hide their relationship. The film does not dwell on external conflict or societal backlash; instead, it presents their romance as a natural progression of their lifelong bond, focusing on emotional intimacy rather than moral debate.

Abranches’s direction is marked by minimalistic storytelling and visual softness. The cinematography uses warm, natural lighting to evoke a sense of serenity and timelessness. The pacing is gentle, with scenes that often linger, allowing the viewer to absorb the unspoken emotions between the characters. There is little in the way of traditional plot tension; instead, the film is more concerned with atmosphere, character dynamics, and the philosophical question of whether love can exist beyond the boundaries set by culture and convention.

The performances are key to the film’s impact. Rafael Cardoso plays Thomás with youthful vulnerability and sincerity, while João Gabriel Vasconcellos portrays Francisco with a quiet, protective maturity. Their chemistry is natural and believable, relying on subtle gestures, prolonged gazes, and understated physical intimacy to convey the depth of their relationship. Julia Lemmertz, as Julieta, provides a warm and grounding presence in the earlier part of the film, shaping the emotional foundation for the brothers’ bond.

Critical reception has been sharply divided. Some praised the film for its poetic, fearless exploration of love without judgment, noting its refusal to turn the story into a melodrama. Others criticized it for lacking dramatic conflict and for avoiding a deeper engagement with the social implications of its central relationship. For supporters, the absence of external condemnation allows the story to focus entirely on the authenticity of the characters’ emotions; for detractors, it creates a sense of detachment from reality.

In the end, From Beginning to End stands as a deliberately provocative yet gentle meditation on love, identity, and emotional connection. It challenges audiences to consider whether love’s legitimacy depends on societal rules or whether it can exist solely on the strength of the bond between two people. The film’s quiet tone, intimate performances, and lack of moral preaching make it a unique entry in contemporary LGBTQ+ cinema, one that invites both admiration and debate.