Julia Roberts & Sean Penn Co-Sign the Most Important Film

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There's nothing quite as Crazy as when Hollywood's most discerning legends throw their weight behind a project. Forget the flashy premiere; when Julia Roberts and Sean Penn co-host a private screening, you know it's not just a film—it's a moment. And that’s exactly what happened in Los Angeles this weekend with Marianna Brennand’s powerful Brazilian film, MANAS.

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With a guest list that felt more like a masterclass in good taste, Roberts and Penn welcomed a select crowd to an intimate screening, setting the tone for a night of honest, emotional connection. Before the lights dimmed, Roberts shared her personal experience with the film, telling the audience,

"I am so excited for what's about to happen to everyone in this room because it happened to me and it will change you. This movie is life-affirming in such a sad and beautiful and magical way.”

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Penn, who came on board as an Executive Producer, followed with his own powerful endorsement. He recalled meeting director Marianna Brennand at Cannes, where her authenticity and power left him convinced she was capable of making a truly great film. After watching it, he had to “put my skin back on,” a visceral reaction to a story that’s both stirring and, as he said, “important.”

It's clear why the film had such an impact. MANAS, born from a decade of research in the Amazon, tells the story of Marcielle, a 13-year-old girl confronting generational trauma and violence. The film's message is a deeply relevant one, and its journey has already been meteoric. With 27 international awards already under its belt and a spot on the shortlist to represent Brazil at the 2026 Academy Awards, its acclaim is undeniable.

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This wasn't just another Hollywood event; it was a testament to the power of art to transcend language and culture. Brennand expressed her gratitude for the hosts, thanking them for "amplifying our voices" and proving that when truly great art finds its champions, there's no telling how far its message can travel.