Brazilian filmmaker José Eduardo Belmonte reunites with actor Rodrigo Lombardi for their latest endeavor, “Em Suas Mãos” (In Your Hands), a gritty indie film set against the bustling backdrop of New York City. This project marks a significant evolution in their creative partnership, previously celebrated in the award-winning series “Carcereiros” (Jailers). The two artists are diving into a narrative that navigates the tumultuous waters of immigrant life and the quest for vengeance following a family tragedy—a reflection of the personal and societal fractures in today’s world.
In an era characterized by escalating hatred and division, Belmonte finds poignant material for storytelling. “Em Suas Mãos” emerges from the darkness of 2018, a year rife with social unrest and personal disillusionment. Speaking to Deadline, Belmonte described how the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed his creative process, prompting him to collaborate with screenwriter Fábio Andrade, whose insights as a Brazilian expatriate deepen the narrative’s authenticity. Their collective storytelling aims to unpack not only the psychological ramifications of revenge but also explore broader themes, such as the erosion of trust in institutions and the complexities of familial ties.
The film’s linguistic choices further emphasize its thematic richness. Although predominantly in English, it will feature sequences in Portuguese and Spanish, underscoring the multifaceted identities of its characters. Belmonte succinctly articulates the narrative’s essence: “It is about revenge in a divided world where faith in institutions has been lost.” This multifarious approach mirrors the immigrant experience, illustrating the nuanced relationships forged in the tensions that arise between cultures and social systems.
Belmonte’s previous collaboration with Lombardi in “Jailers” laid the groundwork for this new project. Their professional rapport developed over three years on a series that resonated deeply with audiences, earning accolades and sparking critical discussions. Lombardi’s portrayal of a correctional officer not only showcased his acting prowess but also established a creative synergy that both artists sought to continue in a more personal narrative sphere. This new artistic direction enables them to probe deeper into their characters’ psyches and the moral quandaries they face.
With backing from Belmonte’s Filmes do Impossível and Marcelo Maia’s Republica Pureza Filmes, alongside coproducers H2O Films, “Em Suas Mãos” has entered a robust production landscape. This collaboration underscores the potential of independent cinema to illuminate important contemporary issues, fostering a conversation that transcends borders. The audience can anticipate a film that resonates on multiple levels, delving into the personal struggles of its characters while reflecting broader socio-political themes.
“Hats off to Belmonte and Lombardi,” one might say, as they venture into the intricacies of human emotion against the urban sprawl of New York, crafting a story about revenge, resilience, and the quest for connection in an increasingly disconnected world.
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