Film Forum

Tall, dark, androgynously handsome, Pierre wears eyeliner and a black lace g-string, while having sex with both boys and girls. The confusion only goes deeper when the teenager’s single, working-class mom is arrested for having stolen him (and his “sister”) at birth. Thanks to the wonders of DNA, he’s returned to his biological parents: bourgeois, straight-laced and thrilled to have him back -- at least until he shows up in a zebra-print mini dress. The turmoil of adolescence is plumbed with wit and compassion by writer/director Anna Muylaert, whose previous film, THE SECOND MOTHER, also dealt with familial loyalty and class tensions. Actress Dani Nefussi gives completely believable knock-out performances as both mothers, and newcomer Naomi Nero defies expectations as a broodingly intense, potentially volcanic six-footer in stiletto heels.

BRAZIL • 2016 • 82 MINS. • IN PORTUGUESE WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES • ZEITGEIST FILMS

Reviews

“A poignant and energetic Brazilian drama that turns a potentially bleak subject into a warmhearted study of genetics, gender and the true meaning of home… Endearingly performed. Bittersweet entertainment that doesn’t shy away from the darker side of growing up. First-timer Nero is a real discovery – Muylaert makes all the traumatic twists in the story feel both natural and almost casual.”
– Jordan Mintzer, The Hollywood Reporter

“Muylaert handles an atmosphere charged with intensely conflicting expectations with a light touch, sparks of humor… (and) emotional depth.”
– Wendy Ide, Screen Daily