I fell in love with Brazil beginning in 2003 when I did a “junior year abroad” (at age 50), living in Natal, capital city of Rio Grande do Norte. After that, I returned to Brazil every year. Five years ago I first noticed Baiana, Val, and Michelle on the LGBTQ+section of Ipanema Beach. From then on, I was always delighted to encounter the “Three Vendors”.

I began to think of making a film about these three radiant people. What are they like when they are ‘off-stage’? Why do they choose to sell exclusively in the LGBTQ+ part of Ipanema? Is this their only job? How do they feel about their work and their customers – LGBTQ+ tourists and Brazilians?

Through a Brazilian friend I met local filmmaker Felipe Carvalho of Dunas Films. In 2021, we shot for five days on Ipanema Beach and in the homes of the vendors. The fact that our three vendors labor autonomously – no boss to abuse, cheat, or disrespect them –  is a major accomplishment. Through their hard work, each has sought and won independence. That they have worked so many years on the beach is testimony to the rightness for each, of their chosen work. 

I and my friends have found a strong sense of community amongst the LGBTQ+ beach-goers. The beach has become a safe place now – it wasn’t always. That too is an achievement. The three vendors bring spice, humor and decency to Ipanema Beach. They are treasured.

Jonathan Lee, Director