The Second Mother

This Portuguese film was awarded a Special Jury Prize at Sundance, and is written and directed by Brazilian director Anna Muylert. Set in São Paulo, the film centers on Val (Regina Casé), a hard-working nanny/housekeeper who is suddenly faced with her estranged daughter Jéssica (Camila Márdila). After spending 13 years looking after other people's children, Val must now learn to be a mother to her own child. However, her daughter soon disturbs the delicate balance of Val's life and her relationship with her employers. Jéssica crosses the fine line between staff and friend, emphasising the still present class divide in Brazil. The mother and daughter are constantly butting heads, each trying to establish themselves in their chaotic relationship. Will Val be able to repair the damage that 13 years apart has done? Or will she lose her daughter forever?

Jess Carroll