Extermínio

In the city of Rio Grande do Sul, a region nestled deep in the heart of Brazil, Extermínio delves into the often-untold lives of trans women living in a society where their very existence is constantly under scrutiny and threat. Based on a tragic murder that shook the community in 2016, this narrative weaves a complex tapestry of memories, stories, and reflections that shed light on the hardships faced by trans women in this region. The story begins by introducing us to a cast of characters, each with their own unique struggles and resilience in the face of adversity. There's Maria, a trans woman who has built a life in this city, but whose identity is constantly challenged and policed by those around her. Her story intertwines with that of Ana, a young trans woman whose dreams of becoming a model are slowly being crushed by the cruelty of her peers and the lack of support from her family. As the narrative unfolds, we see the lives of these women intersecting with that of Alice, a trans woman who has lost her partner to the very violence that this film seeks to expose. The memory of her partner's death is etched into her being, a stark reminder of the dangers that trans women face every day in this region. Alice's story takes us to the local police station, where she confronts the incompetence and indifference of the officers tasked with resolving the countless murders of trans women. The film's title, Extermínio, translates to "extermination" in English, which is a stark reflection of the reality faced by trans women in this region. The numbers are staggering, with Brazil being the country with the highest number of trans murders globally. The filmmakers deliberately chose to focus on this issue, shedding light on the systemic failures that allow such violence to continue unchecked. As the stories of these women unfold, we are transported to a world where transphobia and homophobia are deeply ingrained in the culture. We see how these attitudes are perpetuated through jokes, slurs, and even physical attacks, making it clear that the violence towards trans women is not just an isolated incident, but a symptom of a broader societal problem. Throughout Extermínio, the filmmakers use a non-linear narrative structure to convey the fragmented and disjointed nature of the lives of trans women in this region. The film jumps between scenes, memories, and conversations, creating a sense of disorientation and confusion that reflects the chaos and uncertainty that these women face every day. Yet, despite the many challenges and obstacles, the stories in Extermínio are infused with a sense of resilience and resistance. We see how Maria, Ana, and Alice find moments of joy and connection in their lives, often in the smallest of things – a kind word from a friend, a smile from a loved one, or a triumphant moment in their careers. The film's greatest strength lies in its ability to humanize the trans women of Rio Grande do Sul, moving beyond stereotypes and stigmas to reveal the complexity and depth of their lives. By exploring their stories, Extermínio humanizes these women, making them more relatable and more deserving of our empathy and understanding. Ultimately, Extermínio is a powerful indictment of a society that continues to fail and marginalize its trans women. The filmmakers' decision to shine a light on this issue is a testament to their commitment to telling the stories that need to be told, even in the face of adversity and resistance. This film is a necessary step towards change, a call to action that demands our attention and our outrage. By bearing witness to the lives of these women, Extermínio challenges us to confront the darker aspects of our own humanity, and to work towards creating a more just and inclusive world for all.