Drained

Director: Heitor Dhalia
Screenwriters: Marçal Aquino, Heitor Dhalia

Institute History

  • 2007 Sundance Film Festival

Description

Lourenço works in a pawn shop evaluating people's belongings…their pasts. Capitalizing on the misfortunes of others, he conducts some perverse power games. His office becomes a desperate place. A nauseous stench coming from the bathroom drain consumes his thoughts. He is obsessed with a waitress at his local diner. The food is terrible, and he can't remember her name, but he goes there every day simply to get a glimpse of her derriere. Desires start to drive him mad. His past manipulation of others begins to catch up with him. Will he figure out what's causing the smell and live happily ever after with "the ass," or will it all go down the drain?

Palpable, intimate, and vibrating with vivid textures, Drained has a delightfully simple narrative that overflows with metaphors that maintain a singular sense of dark humor. Lourenço is perfectly played by Selton Mello, who has a captivating presence despite his abhorrent actions. A truly sensual experience, Drained marks the emergence of an exciting new voice.

One needs to look no further than Drained to be filled with excitement about the new wave of Brazilian cinema. A wholly independent production, it's the type of film that has such a distinct flavor it will leave you yearning for more.

— Trevor Groth

Screening Details

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