Renowned Brazilian director José Eduardo Belmonte is back in the spotlight with his latest film, “Em Suas Mãos” (In Your Hands), which marks a compelling collaboration with actor Rodrigo Lombardi. Following their successful partnership on the critically acclaimed series “Carcereiros” (Jailers) which triumphed at the MIPDrama event in Cannes, Belmonte and Lombardi embark on a new cinematic journey that delves into the darker corners of human emotion and experience, notably revenge.
A Narrative Born from Contemporary Struggles
Set against the diverse backdrop of New York City, “Em Suas Mãos” follows two Brazilian immigrants grappling with their grief following the murder of a family member. Faced with the harrowing reality of unpunished crime, the protagonists navigate their despair and morbid desire for justice. Belmonte describes the genesis of this project as rooted in a climate of division and hostility that began to surge during 2018, a thematic thread that resonates even more deeply in today’s socio-political landscape.
In an insightful commentary, Belmonte shared how the pandemic served as a catalyst for creative collaboration with Fábio Andrade, a screenwriter and academia figure whose experience as a Brazilian transplant in New York greatly shaped the narrative. The film emerges as a reaction to a world that seems increasingly devoid of faith in institutional justice, making it not only a personal story of loss but also a critique of societal fragility.
What sets “Em Suas Mãos” apart is its commitment to authenticity through language. While predominantly shot in English, the film integrates Portuguese and Spanish, reflecting the linguistic diversity of the immigrant experience and the cultural tapestry of New York. This multilingual approach reinforces the film’s thematic essence, bridging gaps between communities while highlighting individual struggles intertwined with broader societal issues.
Belmonte aims to create a film that transcends mere entertainment, one that encapsulates the complexities of immigration and familial bonds within a divided society. As the director puts it, the narrative explores not just revenge, but also the intricate relationships among family members and their influences on personal choices and moral dilemmas.
Rodrigo Lombardi’s previous role as a correctional officer in “Carcereiros” established him as a formidable presence in Brazilian cinema, serving as a strong foundation for his return to the screen in “Em Suas Mãos.” Belmonte reflects on their established creative synergy, noting that their previous work allowed them to forge a deep understanding and rapport, leading to this new project steeped in intimacy. In an industry often characterized by fleeting collaborations, their partnership embodies a commitment to thoughtful storytelling that resonates with audiences.
With the support of production houses Filmes do Impossível and República Pureza Filmes, along with H2O Films lending its expertise, “Em Suas Mãos” promises to deliver a poignant exploration into themes of grief and retribution, inviting viewers to confront national and personal identities within the chaotic framework of modern society. As anticipation mounts for its release, one thing is clear: Belmonte and Lombardi are poised to impact audiences profoundly through their artistic expression and shared narrative vision.
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