Miyu Distribution Secures International Rights for Fernanda Salgado's 'Ana, en Passant' Featuring Zezé Motta
Miyu Distribution has secured the global distribution rights for Fernanda Salgado's animated feature film, 'Ana, en Passant.' This captivating Brazil-Portugal-France co-production is slated for its international debut at the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF), where it will uniquely compete in the Vanguard program, setting a precedent for animated cinema. The film, also featuring a world premiere at the Brasília Film Festival and a Brazilian theatrical release on November 5th, delves into themes of memory, identity, and generational connections through its distinctive visual artistry.
Global Showcase for 'Ana, en Passant' with Legendary Actress Zezé Motta
On August 27, 2026, Miyu Distribution, a prominent global independent animation company, announced its acquisition of international rights for Fernanda Salgado's inaugural feature, "Ana, en Passant." This significant development precedes the film's highly anticipated world premiere at the Brasília Brazilian Film Festival and its international unveiling at the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF). At VIFF, the film is poised to achieve a historical milestone as the first animated work to be included in its competitive Vanguard program. Following these festival appearances, Brazilian audiences can look forward to the film's theatrical release on November 5th.
The film boasts a stellar cast, led by the iconic Brazilian actress Zezé Motta, celebrated for her breakthrough role in Cacá Diegues's 1977 hit "Xica" and a distinguished career in both film and television. Joining her are Carlos Francisco, known for his role in "The Secret Agent," and Jéssica Pierina, who masterfully portrays the dual characters of Ana and Alice.
The narrative of "Ana, en Passant" centers on Ana, a young Black French woman. Following her grandmother's passing, Ana embarks on a journey to Belo Horizonte, her matriarch's birthplace. There, within her grandmother's former residence, she encounters Alice, her enigmatic doppelgänger. Their shared exploration of the city's emotional landscape, rich with memories and ancestral ties, becomes a profound quest for self-discovery and understanding of their interwoven identities.
Salgado's directorial vision brings this story to life through an innovative fusion of animation techniques, including rotoscoping, hand-drawn 2D animation, collage, and stop motion. This eclectic style crafts a tangible and poetic world where memories and identities fluidly intertwine. Spanning the vibrant cities of Paris and Belo Horizonte, the film thoughtfully examines universal themes of grief, migration, Black identity, and the enduring, often invisible, bonds connecting women across different generations. The artistic direction is helmed by Marcella Tamayo, with Camila Kater overseeing animation, and the São Paulo-based trio Metá Metá composing the original score.
Fernanda Salgado emphasized that the film is a collaborative effort, shaped by numerous talents and a diverse, predominantly female crew. She expressed immense satisfaction with Miyu Distribution's partnership, appreciating their sensitive approach to the film's international strategy and the opportunity to feature "Ana, en Passant" alongside other distinguished works in their catalogue. Luce Grosjean, co-founder and President of Miyu Distribution, praised the film's seamless integration of visual language and storytelling, hailing Salgado's creation as an intimate yet ambitious exploration of memory, identity, and transformation, brought to life through a striking blend of animation.
A co-production involving Belo Horizonte's Apiario Creative Studio, Portugal's Sardinha em Lata, and France's Midralgar, "Ana, en Passant" has garnered previous recognition. It was presented at the Mifa Feature Film Pitches during the 2019 Annecy International Animation Film Festival and was selected as one of five titles for the prestigious 2025 Annecy Animation Showcase at the Cannes Festival's Marché du Film, lauded by Variety for its lyrical and visually textured style.
"Ana, en Passant" stands as a powerful artistic creation, deftly weaving together personal narrative with broader social themes through its unique animation. This film transcends mere entertainment, offering a contemplative experience that delves into the profound journey of self-discovery and cultural heritage. It masterfully showcases how animation can serve as a potent medium for exploring complex human experiences, demonstrating that artistic innovation can profoundly resonate with audiences by thoughtfully depicting identity, memory, and the intricate connections spanning generations.
