About the Film: Nego Bala was born and raised in Boca do Lixo, one of São Paulo’s roughest neighborhood, a place which lacked opportunities for children like himself. The film is based upon real experiences from his life, who, at age 11, wrote the lyrics for the song “Sonho” ("Dream") during his first time at a juvenile detention center.

About the Filmmaker: Raised in his parent’s video rental store in Brazil, Douglas Bernardt creates unique and beautiful imagery of substance as a director and cinematographer. Douglas has gone on to be celebrated for work with Devassa, Gregory Porter, and Tom Misch. His short film for Baco Exu do Blues, ‘Bluesman’, was awarded the 2019 Cannes Lions Grand Prix for Entertainment for Music. His films have also been recognised by D&AD, Clio Music, Young Director Award, Kinsale Sharks, Cameraimage and won Gold at Ciclope Latino.