HOP FILM: The Best Mother in the World

Filmmaker Anna Muylaert (The Second Mother) is known for her empathetic portraits of Brazilian women working hard to provide for their families and improve their own circumstances. In her latest film, trash collector Gal (Shirley Cruz) flees an abusive relationship and takes to the streets with her two kids and the pushcart that is her livelihood. Pretending they are on a grand adventure in the streets of São Paulo rather than confront her children with the reality of being homeless, Gal attempts to bring a spirit of playfulness to a dire situation.

Premiering at the Berlinale, Muylaert's study of maternal resilience—anchored by Cruz's resolute performance—paints a wider picture of marginalized women's rights and the struggles of working class people in contemporary Brazil.

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