Acclaimed Film 'Manas' Exposes Systemic Abuse of Young Girls in the Amazon
Marianna Brennand's fictional debut highlights the normalization of sexual exploitation through the story of a 13-year-old girl, with global backing from the Dardenne brothers and Walter Salles.
- The film 'Manas' explores the systemic sexual exploitation of young girls in the Amazon, focusing on a 13-year-old protagonist, Tielle, trapped in a cycle of abuse and forced prostitution.
- Initially envisioned as a documentary, the project transitioned to a fictional narrative to address the challenges of capturing victims' testimonies on camera.
- The title 'Manas,' meaning 'sisters' in Portuguese slang, reflects the shared struggles of young girls in abusive environments and the normalization of such practices within families and communities.
- Co-produced by the Dardenne brothers and Walter Salles, the film employs intimate cinematography to convey Tielle's emotional and physical entrapment.
- The film has garnered critical acclaim for its delicate yet powerful portrayal of a pervasive issue, bringing global attention to the exploitation in the Amazon.