Told from the perspective of a 10-year-old boy, Mutum tells the story of a disintegrating family in remote Brazil. Thiago, played by non-professional actor Thiago Da Silva Mariz, lives in isolation within isolation, with only his brother Felipe to confide to. The sensitive Thiago plays witness to the dealings of the bewildering adult world rife with betrayal and violence, and must make a decision whether or not to leave it behind forever. Director Sandra Kogut coaxes a revealing and wholly believable performance from Mariz, who captures childhood apprehension, pain, and vulnerability perfectly. Mutum is a resonant film that maintains its voice and tone throughout, and uses its forest and desert landscapes to effectively symbolize the choice between emptiness and the unknown that Thiago must make.