Roberta Marques • Brazil • 2011 • An evocative portrait of female adolescence at the margins of society

Rânia lives with her mother in the slums of Fortaleza, in northeastern Brazil. Though she dreams of being a dancer, she has to work hard to survive—after school she juggles multiple jobs, including at a beachside bar. A chance encounter with Estela, a choreographer who selects her to join an international dance company, gives Rânia the very first glimpse at the possibility of realizing her dreams.

A dreamy, evocative portrait of female adolescence, Rânia delves into the quotidian rhythms of life at the margins of Brazilian society. Roberta Marques's first film premiered at IFFR - International Film Festival Rotterdam, Cine Ceará, where it won Best Actress, and Lume International Film Festival, where it won a Jury Award - Special Mention.