Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands

Vadinho drops dead while dancing at a street carnival, shocking everyone around him. Flor is the only one who expresses real remorse, while friends and family treat his death as a chance for her to pursue happiness after years of his spendthrift ways and disregard.

The death of Vadinho is seen as an opportunity for Flor to find happiness and perhaps move into a more respectable life. Her friends and relatives anticipate that she might finally escape the misery caused by his gambling and neglect.

The film's early years are shown in a flashback to Flor's marriage with Vadinho. He is a passionate lover who enjoys foreplay, but he is inattentive, spends time in casinos and brothels, and even beats Flor and steals her savings.

Despite his flaws, Vadinho's seduction changes Flor from a formerly inhibited girl into a wife who experiences carnal joy. His provocative life pulls her toward a bolder self, even as his violence remains a threat.

After Vadinho's death, Flor meets Teodoro, a respectable pharmacist who belongs to Bahia's upper circles. He courts Flor with elegance and politeness, presenting a stark contrast to Vadinho's wild nature.

Flor marries Teodoro, hoping for stability and respectability. Teodoro treats Flor like a lady and surrounds her with refined manners, but his dullness soon leaves her unfulfilled.

In bed, Teodoro is as lacking as Vadinho had been accomplished, leaving Flor craving the fiery passion she once shared with Vadinho. She feels constrained by Teodoro's conventional life.

Flor longs for the return of her late husband and for the passionate spark he sparked. She begins to wish for Vadinho's return to fulfill her desires and complete her happiness.

On the anniversary of his death, Vadinho returns to Flor in the nude and explains that she called him to share her bed. Only Flor can see the spirit, and his presence instantly disrupts the household.

Vadinho's presence continues to cause chaos, including antics at casinos that disturb Teodoro and Flor's attempt at fidelity. Flor protests the intrusion but is amused by his mockery of Teodoro's inept attempts at love.

Flor gives in and begins living with both husbands, seeking the happiness she couldn't find with Teodoro alone. The arrangement tests social norms but brings a sense of fulfillment as she embraces the double love.

The film ends with two shots in Flor's bedroom: Teodoro beside her, and Vadinho appearing on her other side. She kisses both men, showing a radical, joyful acceptance of her situation.

In the final moment, Flor walks out of Sunday Mass arm in arm with both Teodoro and the nude Vadinho, radiating contentment at her unconventional happiness.