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Mutum is a Brazilian independent film from 2007, directed by Sandra Kogut and based on the book Campo Geral, by João Guimarães Rosa. The movie tells the story of Thiago, a young boy who lives in a rural community in Minas Gerais, a state in the southeast of Brazil. Thiago is an introverted child who is fascinated by the natural world, especially by the birds that inhabit the fields around his home.

The film is set in the late 1970s, during the military dictatorship that ruled Brazil from 1964 to 1985. The political context is only hinted at in the movie, but we can see that the adults in the community are fearful and cautious, always watching their words and actions. The school that Thiago attends is a run-down building, and his teacher is a stern woman who teaches by rote memorization rather than encouraging critical thinking.

Thiago's life changes when he witnesses a disturbing event that shakes his worldview. After that, he becomes even more isolated, preferring to spend time alone in the fields or with his younger brother Felipe. The two brothers have a close relationship, but Felipe is too young to understand Thiago's deeper concerns.

The cinematography in the movie is beautiful, highlighting the rural landscapes of Minas Gerais and the birds that Thiago loves. The use of color is particularly striking, with muted tones that reflect the somber mood of the story. The acting is also impressive, especially considering that the two main actors, Thiago da Silva Mariz and Wallison Felipe Leal Barroso, had no prior acting experience.

One of the strengths of the movie is the way it portrays the inner life of a child who is struggling to make sense of the world around him. Thiago's perspective is at odds with the narrow-mindedness of the adults in his community, who value conformity and tradition over curiosity and creativity. The movie shows how difficult it can be for a child to express their thoughts and feelings when they are surrounded by people who do not understand them.

The relationship between Thiago and his mother Raquel is also a key element of the story. Raquel is a strong woman who does her best to provide for her family in spite of her husband's absence. She is supportive of Thiago's interests, but she is also preoccupied with the practicalities of daily life. The scenes between Thiago and Raquel are some of the most poignant in the movie, showing the deep connection between a mother and her son.

As the story unfolds, we see Thiago's gradual realization that the world is not as simple as he once thought. He begins to question the values of his community and to see the contradictions that lie beneath the surface. However, the movie does not provide easy answers or resolutions. Rather, it leaves the viewer with a sense of the complexity and ambiguity of life.

Overall, Mutum is a beautiful and moving movie that explores the inner life of a child in a rural community in Brazil. It is a subtle and understated film that requires patience and attention, but it is ultimately rewarding for those who are willing to engage with it. The movie is a testament to the power of cinema to capture the nuances of human experience and to convey the beauty and complexity of the world around us.