Born into a wealthy family Gonzaga had a passion for cinema from an early age, and first appeared on screen in a short advertising film in 1920.

[3] After a period of study in Hollywood, Gonzaga returned to Brazil and founded Cinédia a Rio de Janeiro-based company which quickly became the leading studio in Brazil.

Cinédia specialised in producing Chanchadas, musical comedies with a populist appeal which often featured leading stage and singing stars.

Chanchadas produced during Gonzaga's reign included Hello, Hello Brazil!

Many of Brazil's major stars appeared in Cinédia productions, including Carmen Miranda.