The Brazilian feature film “Manas”, directed by Marianna Brennand and starring actress Dira Paes, has just secured an important nomination for the prestigious 2026 Goya Award in the Best Ibero-American Film category. This announcement, made this Tuesday (13th), represents a new milestone in the production’s international trajectory, which has already garnered over twenty global awards. With this nomination, Brazilian cinema shines once again on one of Europe’s most respected stages, competing with productions from Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Costa Rica.
The award ceremony, scheduled for February 28th in the city of Barcelona, Spain, will determine the winner. This nomination is not an isolated achievement, but rather the result of a path of recognition. In September 2025, the Brazilian Academy of Cinema had already chosen “Manas” to represent the country, a decision that now proves to be correct after the film surpassed a pre-list of twenty other American productions. Therefore, the news reinforces the strength of Brazilian storytelling on the international scene, especially one that addresses profound social themes with sensitivity.
Plot and Previous Recognition
The film tells the story of Marcielle, played by Jamilli Correa, a young woman living on Marajó Island in Pará with her family. During her childhood, she believes the version that her older sister left after “finding a good man.” However, upon growing up, she uncovers the harsh truth about her sister’s whereabouts and realizes she is trapped in an abusive environment. Concerned about her younger sister’s future, the protagonist embarks on a courageous journey against the violence surrounding the women in her community. This powerful narrative earned director Marianna Brennand the “Woman in Motion” trophy at last year’s Cannes Festival in 2025, solidifying the talent behind the camera.
The Goya nomination, therefore, does not come by chance. It crowns a work that has been widely celebrated, elevating Brazil’s name at festivals around the world. Thus, as we await the February ceremony, “Manas” has already established itself as an example of the creative potential and social relevance of national audiovisual production. The awards promise to be a decisive moment, and its participation, regardless of the final result, is already a victory for Brazilian culture.
