Casablanca Estúdios. A name synonymous with Brazilian television drama. Right here in Vargem Grande, Rio de Janeiro, stands a complex that has shaped countless narratives. Casablanca Estúdios, formerly known as RecNov, is a sprawling production hub. It has powered the creation of some of Brazil’s most beloved telenovelas.
Casablanca Estúdios is a significant player in the Brazilian television landscape. It’s the third largest television complex in the country. Only the Estúdios Globo and SBT’s CDT da Anhanguera surpass it in size. The complex boasts ten studios. This allows for the simultaneous production of up to six telenovelas. It also houses numerous sets, including meticulously crafted cities that transport viewers to different eras and locations. In November 2015, the production company Casablanca leased the complex for five years. This marked a new chapter in the studios’ history, solidifying its role as a key player in the industry.
Originally, this site belonged to Renato Aragão Produções. The comedian Renato Aragão used it for his film productions starting in 1977. When not in use by Aragão, the studios were rented out to other production companies, including Rede Globo, for filming miniseries and other projects. A turning point came in March 2005. RecordTV purchased the studios and renamed them RecNov. The telenovela “Prova de Amor” was the first production filmed at the newly acquired complex. RecordTV invested heavily, over R$60 million, in infrastructure and technology upgrades. The area expanded significantly, growing from 40,000 to 200,000 square meters. Three existing studios were renovated. Three new, larger studios were added, along with an administrative building, workshops, a set construction facility, and a prop warehouse.
In 2009, RecordTV completed a further expansion. Four more studios were built, bringing the total to ten. This R$80 million investment allowed the complex to produce up to six shows concurrently. The inauguration ceremony was a grand affair, attended by prominent figures such as then-President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and future President Dilma Rousseff. Notably, the new buildings incorporated sustainable practices. They utilized recycled materials and aimed for low pollutant emissions. In November 2016, the complex took on an additional role. It became the home of RecordTV Rio, consolidating production operations in one location. The new facilities included meeting rooms, a large parking garage, a cafeteria, and a 200-seat auditorium. The outdoor areas offered a relaxing environment with gardens, a coffee shop, a reflecting pool, and a restaurant. This expansion underscored Casablanca Estúdios’ continued growth and importance in the Brazilian media landscape.
Casablanca Estúdios stands as a testament to the power of storytelling. Within these walls, tales of love, loss, and triumph come to life, captivating audiences across Brazil. As we leave Casablanca Estúdios, let’s carry with us the echoes of these stories, a reminder of the creativity and dedication that flourish within these walls.