Terra Natal
From the Archives
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Drama, Short Films, 06-Nov-2025
A literary translator from Sao Paulo moves to New York to work on the novel of a dying author, but, adrift in an unfamiliar city, she struggles to stay grounded. Lucas Manuel-Scheibe directs “Terra Natal,” a dramatic observation of homesickness told through low-key magical realism. Upon her arrival to the new city and apartment, Malina copes with a spontaneous illness. Experiencing nausea and a loss of appetite, a suitcase filled with dirt from Brazil offers unexpected relief. The work opportunity is enough reason for Malina to push forth, but when she learns that the author had unexpectedly died months ago, she's forced to reflect on her choice. As Manuel-Scheibe impressions the discomfort of settling in a new place, he gets effective performances from Julia Burnier and Yuri Luan quietly portraying a couple on edge. -JM. Director: Lucas Manuel-Scheibe. Cast: Julia Burnier, Yuri Luan, Lauren James. DP: Ethan Wen. Editor: Nicola Rios. Producer: Julie Chen. PD: Lillian Jacobs. Sound Editor: Shay Burgman. Composer: Noam Rapoport.
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