Shirley Cruz portrays a mother fighting to protect her children amid urban chaos. Acclaimed Brazilian filmmaker Anna Muylaert returns to the screen with The Best Mother in the World, a powerful and moving film about motherhood, domestic violence, and survival in the margins of urban life. Written and directed by Muylaert, the film continues her tradition of socially relevant storytelling, as seen in her previous works like The Second Mother (Que Horas Ela Volta?).
With Shirley Cruz in the lead role, the film delivers an emotional and necessary narrative that reflects the harsh yet resilient realities faced by many women in Brazil.
A Mother on the Run: Plot Summary of The Best Mother in the World
The story follows Gal, a waste picker who decides to flee her home with her two children, Rihanna and Benin, after enduring extreme domestic violence. However, escaping doesn’t mean safety — it marks the beginning of a new journey full of challenges. Now homeless in São Paulo, Gal must find a way to protect her children while navigating life on the streets and attempting to rebuild their future.
The film offers a profound reflection on what it means to be a mother in a deeply unequal society. In each scene, the strength of Gal as a mother makes viewers question: How far can a mother go to protect her children?
A Diverse and Powerful Cast
Alongside Shirley Cruz’s standout performance, the film features an impressive ensemble cast that blends seasoned actors and rising stars:
- Seu Jorge
- Rihanna Barbosa
- Benin Dailher (also credited as Benin Ayo)
- Luedji Luna
- Katiuscia Canoro
- Dexter
- Lourenço Martinelli
This diverse lineup brings authenticity and depth to the portrayal of a reality that is often overlooked or simplified in cinema.
Production and International Recognition
The Best Mother in the World is produced by +Galeria, in co-production with Telefilms Group and Biônica Filmes. The film had its world premiere at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), featured in the Berlinale Special section, which showcases films with strong artistic and social impact.
The inclusion in such a prestigious event reinforces Anna Muylaert’s growing international recognition and her commitment to telling urgent and compelling stories through Brazilian cinema. The reception was notably positive, with particular praise for the film’s emotional weight and the strength of its cast.
Anna Muylaert Tackles Urgent Social Issues Once Again
As in her previous work, Muylaert uses fiction to expose the cracks in Brazil’s social systems — especially those that fail mothers and children. The Best Mother in the World doesn’t shy away from the difficult realities, but it also finds space for tenderness, hope, and the love that binds families together under pressure.
The film’s title itself creates a stark contrast with Gal’s harsh circumstances. Far from idealization, Gal represents thousands of women who endure unimaginable conditions yet continue to care for and protect their children.
Where to Watch The Best Mother in the World
At this time, no streaming platform has been confirmed to distribute the film after its theatrical release in Brazil. However, given Anna Muylaert’s previous work and the involvement of the production company +Galeria, it’s possible the film could later become available on platforms like Prime Video, Globoplay, or Netflix. Stay tuned to TVStreamzilla for updates.
Why You Should Watch It
If you’re looking for a powerful Brazilian film with solid performances and socially conscious storytelling, The Best Mother in the World is a must-watch. It approaches difficult subjects head-on — such as gender-based violence and institutional neglect — while honoring the resilience and emotional depth of women who continue to fight for their families.
Moreover, watching talents like Shirley Cruz and Seu Jorge in such emotionally demanding roles is a true cinematic experience.
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