Netflix is the streaming platform that excels at unearthing hidden gems. If it weren't for the São Paulo International Film Festival's Netflix Prize, the world would have remained oblivious to the existence of "Saudade Fez Morada Aqui Dentro." With the monopolization of movie theaters by major corporations, film festivals, once a haven for cinephiles, have also lost their purpose.
The fact that this film was sent away empty-handed from the festival indicates that this problem is universal, affecting both sides of the ocean.
The film tells the story of a 15-year-old adolescent losing his sight. Director, screenwriter, cinematographer, and editor Haraldo Borges makes intelligent choices, narrating the story through a coming-of-age lens rather than resorting to unnecessary melodrama.
Gabriel Gurman, Netflix Brazil's director, aptly remarked about the film: "Saudade Fez Morada Aqui Dentro is a production that represents the diversity and richness of Brazilian cinema, and we look forward to audiences around the world having the opportunity to discover this story."
I was able to watch the film thanks to Netflix, and it will soon be available in nearly 140 countries.
Bruno Jefferson's performance in the film is particularly remarkable. The director allowed for improvisation in some scenes, which further enhanced the film's impact.
Make sure to watch this film as soon as it hits your Netflix screens.
