Italian
Denise Fernandes’ ‘Hanami’: A cinematic journey through Cape Verde
A new voice in cinema
MoreThan Films has recently acquired the international sales rights to Denise Fernandes’ debut feature film, Hanami. This highly anticipated film is set to premiere next Wednesday in the Concorso Cineasti del Presente section of the Locarno Film Festival.
A tale of dreams and reality
Set against the backdrop of a remote volcanic island in Cape Verde, Hanami tells the story of Nana, a young girl afflicted by a mysterious illness. As her fever worsens, she embarks on a journey to the foot of a volcano in search of a cure. This journey leads her into a world where the lines between dreams and reality blur. Years later, as Nana reaches her teenage years, her mother reappears, adding another layer of complexity to her life.
For those interested in a sneak peek, you can watch the trailer for Hanami.
A filmmaker’s roots
Denise Fernandes, born in Lisbon to Cape Verdean parents and raised in Switzerland, has been a filmmaker for over a decade. Her breakout moment came with the 2020 short film Nha Mila, which competed at prestigious festivals such as Locarno and Uppsala and was nominated for best short at the Portuguese Film Academy Sophia Awards.
Reflecting on her inspiration for Hanami, Fernandes shared, “Growing up in Europe, I noticed that Cape Verde was often omitted from world maps and globes because of its small size. As one way to make it visible, I made Cape Verde and its people the central theme of my first feature film.”
Collaboration and production
Fernandes co-wrote Hanami with celebrated Portuguese filmmaker Telmo Churro, whose 2022 feature Índia was showcased at festivals including Thessaloniki and São Paulo and was nominated for a Portuguese Golden Globe.
The film is produced by Alina Film and O Som e a Fúria, with Ventura Film and RSI Radiotelevisione Svizzera co-producing.
A cinematic masterpiece
MoreThan Films managing partner Queralt Pons Serra praised the film, stating, ”‘Hanami’ is an incredibly beautiful and cinematic film. In her debut, Denise Fernandes demonstrates and consolidates her artistic vision by presenting a story set in Cape Verde where, through her characters rooted in the territory and magnificent landscapes, she speaks of belonging, of leaving and returning, and of how the land and soil around the protagonist act as a mother figure by offering her protection and a safe haven.”
Personal reflections
As a cinema enthusiast, it’s always thrilling to witness the emergence of new voices in the industry. Hanami promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of identity, belonging, and the intricate relationship between humans and their environment. The film’s setting in Cape Verde, a place often overlooked on the global stage, adds a unique and refreshing perspective to the narrative.
For those who appreciate films that delve into the human condition and the complexities of life, Hanami is a must-watch. The collaboration between Fernandes and Churro, combined with the support of renowned production companies, sets the stage for a film that is both artistically and emotionally compelling.
Final thoughts
In a world where mainstream cinema often dominates, it’s essential to celebrate and support films like Hanami that bring diverse stories and perspectives to the forefront. Denise Fernandes’ debut feature is not just a film; it’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of representation in cinema.
For more information and to stay updated on the film’s release, keep an eye on the Locarno Film Festival website and other film festival platforms.
