A captivating fusion of talent and storytelling took center stage in Los Angeles recently, as Julia Roberts and Sean Penn hosted a special screening of “Manas,” a Brazilian film vying for Oscar recognition. This remarkable event not only spotlighted the film’s compelling narrative but also underscored the influential roles played by Roberts and Penn in bringing Marianna Brennand’s debut work to a global audience. Enveloped in anticipation and admiration, attendees were set to experience a transformative cinematic journey.
A Star-Studded Screening
On Saturday, the spotlight was on Marianna Brennand’s debut film “Manas” during a screening hosted by renowned actors Julia Roberts, Sean Penn, and patrons John and Nancy Ross. As one of Brazil’s top contenders for the Academy Awards, the film was eloquently introduced by Roberts and Penn, both of whom highlighted its profound impact. Following the screening, Brennand, alongside star Dira Paes, engaged in a thought-provoking Q&A session.
Roberts expressed her enthusiasm, telling the audience, “I am so excited for what’s about to happen to everyone in this room because it happened to me and it will change you. This movie is life-affirming in such a sad and beautiful and magical way.”
Authenticity and Power
Reflecting on his first encounter with Brennand, Penn shared his admiration, recalling an event at the Cannes Film Festival. He stated, “At the Cannes Film Festival this year, there was a Kering Foundation dinner, and a woman came up to the stage to accept the Emerging Talent Award. She gave a speech, and the authenticity of this person was the kind of power that could only make a great film.”
Grateful for the support, Brennand thanked Penn and Roberts, acknowledging their pivotal roles. “Thank you, Sean, for seeing us, for recognizing the power of this story, and for speaking out… And Julia, thank you for empowering us with your presence here today. You both are immensely amplifying our voices,” she expressed.
A Film Born from a Decade of Research
“Manas” is deeply rooted in 10 years of Brennand’s research in the Amazon. Her background as a documentarian helped shape this story about Marcielle, a 13-year-old girl from Marajó Island. The film delves into the challenges faced by women and children in a society that often silences their voices. Marcielle’s journey of confronting generational wounds and reclaiming her destiny forms the crux of this powerful narrative.
Having already won Brennand the best director award at Venice Days and 27 other accolades, “Manas” continues to gain momentum. It stands as one of the six strong contenders from Brazil for the 2026 Oscars, with Penn, Academy Award winner Walter Salles, and others serving as executive producers.
A Legacy of Impactful Storytelling
Penn’s decision to join the project as an executive producer stemmed from his belief in its significance. He once stated, “In the tradition last fulfilled by Walter Salles’s ‘I’m Still Here,’ Marianna Brennand’s film ‘Manas’ continues Brazil’s most enduring cinematic legacy. Films of striking social relevance that never fall to polemic or sensationalism, but instead so trustingly fulfill their characters’ plight and courage. ‘Manas’ is deeply emotional, stirring, and God forbid… important. I felt as if I had to put my skin back on after watching it.”
The Los Angeles screening of “Manas” not only underscored the film’s transformative power but also highlighted the global impact of its passionate advocates, ensuring its place as a significant contender on the world stage.
