At just 17, Emanoel chases a Jiu Jitsu dream that began on the hills of the Morro dos Prazeres favela in Rio de Janeiro. While adulthood arrives early, he juggles work and caring for his mother while training relentlessly in Jiu Jitsu to pursue his dream of becoming a world champion. For Emanoel, the mat is more than a place to compete. It offers a space to focus, to escape the pressures of everyday life, and to imagine a future beyond the limits of his surroundings.

MONSTRINHO captures his journey on and off the mat as he navigates the challenges of his life while working towards a different future. The film offers an intimate portrait of a youg man coming of age in the complex reality of life in the favela.

Director – Jermain Cikic

DOP – Jermain Cikic

Editor – Jits Vlaar

Grading – Also Studio

Music & SFS – Myrd Schenk

Mix – Remco Langedijk

Title design – Jesse Weijer

Translation & Subtitles – Gabriel Lima

Interview – Willem Mulders

Special thanks to
Diogo Bandock Alcantara for opening the doors of his Jiu Jitsu school Boa Safre Team.