During the Carnival celebrations in Olinda, Brazil, giant puppets representing various cultural icons such as actor Wagner Moura, director Kleber Mendonça Filho, and singers Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars delighted crowds on Monday, February 16. This eclectic mix of figures highlighted the tradition of the Apoteose dos Bonecos Gigantes, which draws large crowds to witness this colorful spectacle each year. The event commenced at Alto da Sé and saw the exuberant parade of the giant puppets standing out against the vibrant backdrop of celebrating revelers.

Each year, the procession features new faces in the form of giant puppets, illustrating the dynamic nature of the celebration and its ability to incorporate contemporary culture alongside traditional elements. The honorary mention this year goes to Wagner Moura, who is nominated for an Oscar for his role in 'O Agente Secreto'. This aligns strategically with the timing of the Carnival festivities, making Moura's puppet a focal point of pride. Additionally, the participation of Kleber Mendonça Filho, the film’s director, adds another layer of cultural significance as the characters embody the city of Recife from 1970.

As Carnival brings together various art forms and public personalities, it serves as a powerful reminder of Brazil’s rich cultural tapestry. The presence of such an array of figures—from film to music—ensures that Carnival remains not only a festivity of joy but also a celebration of artistic achievement and national pride, particularly as it resonates with the local history and contemporary cinematic success.