The International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), through its Hubert Bals Fund (HBF), has unveiled the 10 projects chosen for the inaugural HBF+Brazil: Co-development Support program. This new initiative, a partnership with key Brazilian cinema promotion entities such as Spcine, RioFilme, Projeto Paradiso, and Embratur, aims to bolster the development of diverse Brazilian films. Each selected project, helmed by second or third-time Brazilian filmmakers, will receive a grant of €10,000, underscoring a commitment to nurturing cinematic talent and expanding the global reach of Brazilian storytelling.
These ten fiction film projects represent a rich tapestry of narratives, ranging from encounters with extraterrestrial life and individuals possessing supernatural abilities to historical dramas set in colonial Brazil and contemporary stories exploring hip-hop culture and identity. The selection reflects a broad geographical scope within Brazil, with grants distributed to projects connected with filmmaking hubs like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, as well as those involving collaborations with filmmakers from other regions. This approach highlights the program's dedication to fostering a truly national cinematic voice.
Josephine Bourgois, executive director of Projeto Paradiso, emphasized the importance of this partnership in selecting projects with strong potential to captivate both domestic and international audiences. She noted the HBF's consistent interest in Brazilian cinema and highlighted this initiative as a reflection of Brazil's growing momentum and visibility in the global film market. The involvement of a world-renowned fund like HBF reinforces confidence in the sustained growth and impact of Brazilian films on the international stage.
Tamara Tatishvili, head of the Hubert Bals Fund, remarked on the significance of the HBF+Brazil Co-Development Support as an exciting new chapter for the fund. She lauded the initiative as a unique collaborative effort, bringing together multiple sectors to collectively support these promising film projects. This synergy between international funding and local Brazilian organizations creates a robust platform for emerging and established filmmakers to bring their distinctive visions to life.
Among the compelling projects receiving support is "Bicho," directed by Madiano Marcheti, which tells the story of a calf's escape into the wilderness and the conflict it ignites. Marcelo Caetano's "Brasa" delves into colonial-era Brazil, offering a historical drama. Anita Rocha da Silveira's "Enquanto não voltam" explores extraterrestrial encounters in 1986 Rio de Janeiro, intertwining sci-fi with themes of political healing. Rafaela Camelo's "Irmã mais velha" follows a mother with supernatural powers comforting her daughter after a tragedy. Maurílio Martins' "Laguna" portrays a man seeking a new beginning after prison. Pedro Geraldo's "Um longo despir-se" traces a textile worker's journey in 1930s São Paulo and a trans woman's later search for a significant dress. Lucas Parente's "Múmia tropical" investigates the historical figure of Emperor Dom Pedro II and his encounter with ancient deities in Egypt. Lincoln Péricles Pinto's "Olhos de Yara" centers on a young hip-hop lover navigating rap battles and politics after developing a third eye. Carlos Segundo's "Papiloscopista" features a mysterious woman leading a double life as a fingerprint analyst and a master of disguise. Lastly, Luciano Vidigal's "Sobre noix" tells the story of two Black women from a favela seeking to adopt a child.
The HBF+Brazil initiative represents a strategic investment in the future of Brazilian cinema, facilitating the development of films that are not only creatively ambitious but also culturally significant. By providing crucial early-stage funding and support, the program empowers filmmakers to explore diverse themes and narratives, ensuring that Brazilian stories continue to resonate globally and enrich the tapestry of world cinema. This collaborative model demonstrates a powerful commitment to fostering international cultural exchange and artistic innovation within the film industry.