Marianna Brennand, the director of the film 'Manas' and a Goya nominee, seeks to shed light on the issue of gender violence experienced in the Amazon community of Marajó, Brazil. Her film explores the lives of two sisters, providing an intimate portrayal of the systemic abuse that often remains unaddressed in society. Brennand's motivation to tell this story was significantly influenced by her encounter with Brazilian artist and activist Fafá de Belém, who brought attention to the silent suffering of girls and women in the region, prompting Brennand to ensure that these stories were heard by Brazilians themselves.

In preparation for the film, Brennand embarked on extensive research and immersed herself in the realities of the community, transitioning from her initial idea of a documentary to a narrative film to effectively represent the emotional depth of the subject matter. The significance of 'Manas' extends beyond mere storytelling; it serves as a call to action for viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about gender violence that persist in everyday life but are often ignored. The film has been nominated for the Best Ibero-American Film at the Goya Awards, highlighting its cultural and social relevance.

As the narrative unfolds, Brennand hopes to evoke empathy from audiences and encourage discussions around the urgency of addressing gender-based violence. She emphasizes her commitment to ensuring that viewers do not turn away from the harsh realities faced by many women, reflecting her broader vision of fostering awareness and change through the medium of film, and showcasing the emotional resilience of those affected by such trauma.