‘Transamazonia’ Debuts Trailer Ahead of World Premiere in Competition at Locarno Film Festival (EXCLUSIVE)

As someone who has always been captivated by films that delve into the complexities of female characters, I am genuinely excited about Pia Marais’ latest creation, “Transamazonia.” Having followed her career from her debut with “The Unpolished” to her more recent works like “Layla Fourie,” it is evident that Marais has a knack for crafting compelling narratives that explore the human condition in unique and thought-provoking ways.


The sneak peek for Pia Marais’ movie titled “Transamazonia” has been unveiled prior to the film’s global debut at the Locarno Film Festival. This film, which will make its North American premiere at the New York Film Festival, is being marketed in foreign territories by The Party Film Sales. WME Independent is managing the rights for North America.

The movie revolves around Rebecca, the child of missionary Lawrence Byrne who survived a plane crash in the heart of the Amazon Forest and was labeled a “miracle.” As an adult, she’s known for her healing abilities, which have kept their mission thriving due to her growing reputation. However, when unlawful loggers encroach upon the land of the indigenous community they are trying to convert, Lawrence deliberately places them in the thick of this developing conflict.

Marais mentioned that while crafting his work, he aimed to maintain a sense of ambiguity and suspense using genre elements. He wanted to evoke an eerie, dreamlike sensation reminiscent of films such as Brian De Palma’s “Carrie” or Hitchcock’s “Marnie.” The narrative focuses on the central character, Rebecca, who is still uncovering her true identity.

I’ve always been drawn to female characters who conceal aspects of themselves to navigate their world. Often, they hide these parts even from themselves. It was crucial that Rebecca kept up an illusion, like a mask. She was a healer of children, serving as a reflection, and as she matures, she comes into her own. Through a subtly determined process, she takes control and transforms herself, challenging her father and redefining her role.

In my latest movie review, I’d like to shine a spotlight on an engaging film featuring a talented ensemble cast. Helena Zengel, Jeremy Xido, Joao Vitor Xavante, Pira Assurini, Hama Luciano, and Sabine Timoteo all deliver captivating performances that truly bring this story to life.

The movie was made through a collaboration between Cinema Defacto, Gaijin, Aldabra Films, Pandora Film Produktion, and Point Productions. It also involved cooperation with Volos Films, Vitamine C, O’Par, and Cabocla Filmes. Additionally, it received support from Cinema Inutile, Tigresa Filmes, Matizar Filmes, and ARTE/Cofinova. Furthermore, it was a production in partnership with Arte-WDR and RTS Radio – Television Suisse.

“Transamazonia” marks Marais’ fourth feature film, following her debut, “The Unpolished,” which received the Tiger Award at the Rotterdam Film Festival in 2007. Her subsequent films, “At Ellen’s Age” and “Layla Fourie,” have been screened in competition at Locarno in 2010 and Berlinale in 2013, respectively, and have appeared at over 30 festivals including Toronto. “Layla Fourie” was also recognized with a Special Jury Mention at the 2013 Berlinale. In 2018, Marais made her first documentary, “Cari Compagni,” for Arte.

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2024-08-08 13:46