The case of The Park Maniac remains one of the most chilling true crime stories in Brazilian history. Now, more than two decades later, it has been turned into a powerful and emotional film available on Prime Video. The feature-length drama revisits the horror that shook São Paulo in the late 1990s, while also reflecting on the role of the media and society in confronting gender-based violence.
Watch now on Prime Video
Who was The Park Maniac?
Francisco de Assis Pereira became infamous after luring young women with fake modeling offers at a park in São Paulo. But instead of taking photos, he led them to secluded areas where he committed sexual assaults and murders. The case, exposed in 1998, became national news and sparked fear across the country.
As a result, bringing this story to the screen is not just about retelling a crime — it’s about preserving memory, honoring the victims, and encouraging deeper reflection.
A crime story brought to the screen
Directed by Maurício Eça, the film The Park Maniac offers both a journalistic and emotional take on the events. Rather than focusing solely on the killer, the story follows Elena, a young reporter trying to make her mark while covering a series of gruesome crimes that shake the city.
Through her perspective, the film explores the intersection between truth, justice, and the ethics of sensationalist media.
A powerful cast
The film features a talented cast of Brazilian actors who bring authenticity and emotion to the screen:
- Silvero Pereira as Francisco de Assis Pereira
- Giovanna Grigio as Elena Pelegrino
- Mel Lisboa as Martha Pelegrino
- Marco Pigossi as Vicente Carvalho
- Xamã as Nivaldo Pereira
- Bruno Garcia as Zico Brandão
- Augusto Madeira as Commissioner Fernando Medeiros
- Christian Malheiros, Talita Younan, Bruna Mascarenhas, among others
Silvero Pereira delivers a chilling performance that captures the predator’s complexity without glamorizing his crimes. Meanwhile, Giovanna Grigio’s portrayal of Elena offers strength, vulnerability, and a determination that anchors the film emotionally.
More than a thriller: a socially relevant story
Although The Park Maniac is a true crime film, it doesn’t sensationalize its subject. Instead, it carefully reconstructs the fear and trauma of the era, while paying tribute to the survivors and those who fought for justice.
The film’s dark visual tone, tense soundtrack, and sharp editing create an atmosphere of constant suspense — but its real impact lies in how it invites the audience to reflect on society’s treatment of women and victims of violence.
A message beyond entertainment
Despite being based on events from the 1990s, the themes of the film remain extremely current. Gender violence, media responsibility, and police failures are still relevant today. That’s why The Park Maniac stands out not just for its storytelling, but for its urgency.
Additionally, by placing a young female journalist at the center of the plot, the film gains extra depth and resonance, reminding viewers of the importance of women’s voices in historically male-dominated narratives.
Is it worth watching?
Absolutely. If you’re a fan of fact-based dramas that provoke thought and emotion, The Park Maniac is a must-see. It’s intense, well-executed, and above all, respectful of the real-life people involved. It doesn’t glorify evil — it sheds light on pain, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.
Watch now on Prime Video
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