The Guardian

After hearing about a Brazilian folklore party at the neighborhood school, Fernando, an 8-year-old child, decides to go dressed as Curupira, with a skirt and everything, and suggests it to his grandfather, Mr. Lino, 70 years old. The dynamics between grandfather and grandson begin to be affected as Lino perceives Fernando to be a different child. Through subtleties in the dialogues and the silence, social conventions and the responsibility of being the guardian-protector of something precious, the film evokes conceptions of the masculine within a queer childhood.

Directed by Eduardo Tosta, The Guardian leans on a strong ensemble — Carlos Betão, João Pedro Magalhães, Luciana Souza — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about fantasy titles of 2025.