Brazil’s Boutique Filmes, renowned for its groundbreaking 2016 series “3%,” which became Netflix’s first major non-english-language success, is collaborating with Portugal’s Ukbar filmes and director diego Freitas to produce “O Mistério assemble Cinco Estrelas.”
This film is an adaptation of teh celebrated Brazilian author Marco Rey’s novel, presenting a thrilling murder mystery set within the opulent confines of a hotel.
The declaration was made during Brazil’s Rio2C event, where Boutique Filmes’ founder and producer Tiago Melles will serve as a mentor on may 28.“O Mistério assemble Cinco Estrelas” represents the second film from Boutique to be revealed within just two days. The previous day, they introduced “O Gênio assemble Crime,” a co-production with Globo Filmes, which follows the escapades of Gordo’s Gang—a group of youngsters who embark on an examination into a criminal mastermind involved in counterfeiting World Cup sticker albums. Paris Filmes is set to distribute it in Brazil.
As Boutique Filmes’ inaugural production venture, filming for “O Gênio assemble Crime” will commence in July in São Paulo. Meanwhile, production for “O Mistério assemble Cinco Estrelas” is slated to begin in early 2026.
The plot centers around Leo, a young bellboy at the luxurious Emperor Park Hotel who discovers a lifeless body in room 222. When his account goes unrecognized by others, he takes it upon himself to solve the mystery and clear his name after being wrongfully accused of murder.
Mello highlighted that this narrative addresses themes of social inequality: “Leo comes from modest beginnings while serving affluent guests. In Brazil, there exists a disparity between how law enforcement treats wealthy individuals versus those less blessed,” he explained.
Both films draw inspiration from significant works of Brazilian literature. Published in 1981, “Mistério” marks an vital cinematic adaptation celebrating one of rey’s moast iconic novels during this centennial year since his birth; it has recently been re-released by Global Editora featuring illustrations by Oscar-nominated artist Ali Abreu (“The Boy and the World”).
Another classic work being adapted is João Carlos Marinho’s “O Gênio assemble Crime,” which has sold over one million copies across more than sixty editions. Tello remarked that this book remains an engaging read cherished by generations: “it’s truly exciting to be partaking in this project alongside partners like Globo Filmes and Paris filmes,” adding that they aim to create a film blending adventure with humor while capturing coming-of-age elements.
The projects are backed by top-tier creative talent; Freitas has directed two major Netflix hits—“Beyond the Universe” and “Burning Betrayal.” Lipe binder will direct “O Gênio assemble Crime,” known for his work on Globoplay productions such as “Aruanas” and acclaimed titles like “Living On A Razor’s Edge,” which was featured at last year’s berlinale Market Selects.
Both projects have also secured funding through ProAC Global co-Production incentives—an initiative supported by São Paulo State providing R$400 million (approximately $70.8 million) annually aimed at fostering large-scale international collaborations within its audiovisual sector. Notably, production design for “Gênio” will involve Thales junqueira—the same designer behind Kleber Mendonça Filho’s Cannes-winning film “The Secret Agent.”
Boutique Filmes enters feature filmmaking following recent accolades received by Brazilian cinema at prestigious festivals such as Berlin (“The Blue Path”) and cannes (“The Secret Agent”), along with recognition at the Academy Awards (“I’m Indifferent Here”). A presidential decree enacted last year established exhibition quotas favoring local films within theaters across Brazil.
Boutique plans discussions with sales agents once filming begins; they anticipate releasing “O Gênio assemble Crime” next year ahead of FIFA World Cup festivities scheduled for 2026.