Eduardo Resende Proud to Compose Score for Biopic on Mauricio de Sousa, the Brazilian Stan Lee

“I started reading Mauricio de Sousa’s beloved comic book ‘Turma da Mônica’ (Monica’s Gang) when I was very young, and it quickly became part of our daily lives, at home and also in school. The comics were so popular that teachers would actually assign them in class to help us practice reading…The stories captured what it felt like to be a kid in Brazil, playing outside, having silly arguments with friends, learning life lessons in a playful way. At the same time, the stories subtly introduced social themes like friendship, respect, and standing up for what’s right, which made them not just entertaining but meaningful as well. So, I was jazzed to be asked to compose the score for Mauricio’s biopic.”—Composer Eduardo Resende

Composer/multi-instrumentalist/music producer Eduardo Resende has earned composing and playing credits on projects ranging from major studio-released feature movies, to short films that earn film festival recognition, and also national advertising campaigns. But the score he composed for the upcoming biopic, Mauricio de Sousa: O Filme, made him incredibly proud to work on a project about a revered countryman, explaining, “I composed the entire original score for the film. And, while film scoring is always a collaborative process with the director, editor, and sound team, I was solely responsible for writing the original music behind this project. It felt very rewarding to perform the acoustic guitar theme at the recording sessions that we held at one of the best recording studios in the country. Scoring this film also reminded me how deeply music can connect us to our own memories and sense of identity.”

Cartoonist, innovator and social activist Mauricio de Sousa, who was awarded the Brazilian Presidential Medal of Honor (for his promotion of human rights), has created over 200 characters for his popular series of children's comic books. And, “Mauricio’s” comics have gained international fame, getting featured on licensed merchandise, and have even been adapted for movies, television, and video games.

Composer Resende explains: “Mauricio created a world that felt alive. Kids didn’t just like the characters, they identified with them. That’s why the franchise grew so much. From comics to cartoons, movies, toys, games, and even a São Paulo theme park, everything was built around the emotional bond fans had with the characters. It was immersive. And because the stories evolved with time, touching on topics like the environment, health, and diversity, it has stayed relevant across generations.”

Resende also recently worked on the musical teams that scored the music for several movies including high profile Hollywood films—The Beekeeper, Borderlands, and Kraven the Hunter. Moreover, he also created original scores for emotionally complex stories within a short film format, on both Manziello and Shame. Resende talks about the challenge of composing for modern projects, in today’s fast-paced world, and particularly for the score for Mauricio de Sousa: O Filme.

—What was the impact of reading and learning from Mauricio’s comics?

—Reading Maurício’s comics made learning fun because we already loved the characters and their adventures. Everyone in the classroom would get excited when it was time to read a new story, we’d laugh together, talk about our favorite characters, and even trade comic books during recess.

—How did he become the Brazilian Stan Lee?

—Mauricio wasn’t just telling stories, he was shaping culture. Like comic book legend Stan Lee, he created a universe that extended far beyond entertainment. But he also went a step further by embedding strong values and social commentary in his work. His characters helped teach Brazilian kids about respect, tolerance, and community. That’s part of what made him more than a cartoonist, he became a national icon.

—How did you become involved in the movie?

—I was first contacted by the executive producer while they were still gathering potential composers for the film. I was immediately drawn to the opportunity to help tell the story of such an iconic figure in Brazilian culture—it was something I couldn’t pass up. I spent a few days immersed in the concept, writing demo pieces that I felt captured the aesthetic and emotional tone of the film. When I got the call that the director Pedro Vasconcelos had listened to my demos and loved them, I was over the moon. It was one of those moments you don’t forget, when all the hours you put into shaping a musical world actually connect with the creative team. I haven’t had the chance to meet Mauricio in person yet, but after spending so much time writing music inspired by his life, I honestly feel like I know him in a deep way. His story, his vision, and everything he’s built over the decades are incredibly inspiring.

—What goal did the director give you for the score?

—The director’s main goal for the score was to capture the emotional depth of Mauricio’s story—his creativity, resilience, and the cultural legacy he built. It wasn’t just about scoring a film, it was about honoring a lifetime of work that shaped generations. Without a doubt, it was a huge responsibility. The biggest challenge was doing justice to Mauricio’s legacy and the deep emotional connection that audiences have with his characters. Entire generations grew up with these stories, so every musical moment had to be approached with real care and respect. Every note was written with intention, every chord orchestrated down to the finest detail, and every performance recorded with absolute dedication. I poured everything I had into this score, drawing on all my experience as a composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist to shape a sound that felt both nostalgic and fresh. It was one of the most demanding and rewarding projects I’ve ever done, and I’m truly proud of the result.

—What did you learn from collaborating on this project?

—Apart from further reminding me how music connects us all, I also gained a new appreciation for Mauricio’s journey, not just as a creative force, but as someone who has fought to make the world a better place. From a technical standpoint, it reinforced the importance of storytelling clarity in music, how a single motif can carry decades of meaning.

—What do you feel seeing the edited movie and what expectations are there for the movie?

—I’m incredibly proud of how it came together. It’s emotional, inspiring, and full of heart. With major producers like Disney involved, expectations are high, but I truly believe the film delivers. It honors Mauricio’s legacy in a way that will resonate not just with fans, but with anyone who believes in the power of imagination and perseverance. Overall, it was a high-profile, collaborative production, and I’m proud to have contributed to a film that will connect so powerfully with audiences across generations. I can’t wait to see people all over Brazil going to the movie theaters later this year to watch it! Additionally, being part of a film about one of Brazil’s greatest cultural icons is a huge milestone for me. I’m incredibly grateful. It’s opened new doors and connected me with creatives I deeply admire. But more than that, it reminded me why I started writing music in the first place, to tell stories that matter.

Check out the trailer for Mauricio de Sousa: O Filme, and also Eduardo Resende’s music website, and his IMDbPro page.