Academy Award winner Sean Penn has joined the team behind the new film ‘Manas’. He will serve as an executive producer on the project. The film is the debut fiction feature from director Marianna Brennand.
‘Manas’ recently won the best director award at Venice Days. This is an independent section of the Venice Film Festival. Penn joins a prestigious group of executive producers supporting the film.
Sean Penn Champions New Brazilian Cinema
Penn is a two-time Oscar-winning actor known for his powerful roles. He is also a respected filmmaker and humanitarian. His involvement brings significant attention to the project.
He joins other notable figures like Walter Salles. Salles won last year’s best international feature Oscar. Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, two-time Palme d’Or winners, are also on board. According to industry reports, this collective support is a major coup for the film.
Penn praised the film’s social relevance and emotional power. He said it continues Brazil’s enduring cinematic legacy. He described the film as deeply stirring and important.
‘Manas’ Tackles Difficult Social Issues
The film tells a powerful story set on Marajó Island. It follows a 13-year-old girl named Marcielle. She confronts generational wounds and violence in her society.
Director Marianna Brennand began her career in documentaries. She brings a realistic eye to this fictional story. The narrative focuses on giving voice to the silenced.
Brennand first met Penn at the Cannes Film Festival. She received an emerging talent award that evening. Penn was moved by her speech and requested to meet her.
After viewing the film, Penn was profoundly shaken. He committed to helping raise awareness for the project. He believes the story needs to reach a global audience.
The film has already secured distribution in several countries. KimStim acquired it for a U.S. release. Bendita Film Sales is handling international sales.
Sean Penn’s endorsement highlights the film’s powerful message and cinematic achievement. His support will help ‘Manas’ find its audience worldwide. This project underscores the vital role of storytelling in driving social change.
Dropping this nugget your way
What is the film ‘Manas’ about?
‘Manas’ follows a 13-year-old girl from Marajó Island. She confronts societal violence against women and children. Her journey alters her family’s fate forever.
Who is the director of the film?
Marianna Brennand is the director behind ‘Manas’. This is her debut fiction feature film. She began her career as a documentarian.
Why did Sean Penn get involved?
Penn was deeply moved after seeing the film. He felt it was emotionally powerful and important. He committed to helping raise its global awareness.
Where has the film been released?
The film has already been released in Brazil and several European countries. It is scheduled for a future release in the United States. International sales are being handled at the Toronto festival.
What awards has the film won?
‘Manas’ won the best director award at Venice Days in 2024. This section is a parallel event at the Venice Film Festival. The award recognized Brennand’s directorial achievement.
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