Secure Emanoel’s Dream: From Rio to European Gold 🥇
On October 29th, 17-year-old Emanoel “Monstrinho” Santos Freitas is invited to step onto one of the biggest stages of his life: the European Jiu-Jitsu IBJJF Championship 2025 in Italy. A dream he’s been chasing since growing up on the steep hills of the Morro dos Prazeres favela in Rio de Janeiro. A tournament that could change the course of his life and Jiu Jitsu career.
The trailer gives a glimpse into Emanoel’s life, his training and the daily struggles he faces. Despite all these responsibilities he remains determined to chase his dream: to create a better life for him and his mother. The full portrait documentary, telling his story in greater depth, will be released later this year.
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Director – Jermain Cikic @cikicjermain
DOP – Jermain Cikic @cikicjermain
Post-production:
Editor – Jits Vlaar @vlitsjaar
Grading – Also Studio @also___studio
Music – Myrd Schenk @myrdschenk
SFX & Mix – Myrd Schenk @myrdschenk
Title design – Jesse Weijer @electro_receptor
Interview – Willem Mulders willem_mulders
Translation & Subtitles – Gabriel Lima @Gabriel.palada.lima
Special thanks
Diogo Bandock Alcantara @diogobandocka
for opening the doors of his Jiu Jitsu school