The horror in “Morto não fala”

from literature to the screen

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the social horror present in the short story Morto não fala, written by Marco de Castro, and in its respective film adaptation, by director Dennison Ramalho, at the same time as seeking to understand their narrative similarities and differences. For such, it starts from the field of Cultural Studies, understanding the representational and pedagogical potential present in both cultural artifacts, literature and cinema. In methodological terms, a transmethodological stance is adopted, using cultural analysis, discourse analysis, critical visual methodology and on-screen ethnography. Note the intimate and rich relationship between literature and cinema, so prolific as to enable reflections and lessons regarding contemporary social issues. The adaptation of Morto não fala goes hand in hand with the short story in many aspects, although it differs in other points and even transcends certain issues developed in a more profound way. In narrative terms, and thinking about the elements present in both, a similarity can be seen, in addition, both fit into the horror genre. In general, it can be conceived that both present themselves as rich, because, based on their horror, they propose perceptions and reflections about ourselves and the world around us.