English summary

Iremar works in the rodeo stables of north-eastern Brazil where they ride the vaquejada: a traditional rodeo in which two men on horseback try to bring down a large bull by its tail. This macho man also has another big passion: designing clothing. In dance sequences verging on the surreal we see women in Iremar’s creations making the heads of the mostly male audience spin. One day he meets a perfume saleswoman who also works in an immense clothing firm. To Iremar this is Valhalla, representing everything he desires.

In a unique mix of social realism, impressionist images and stunning eroticism, Neon Bull provides an innovative view of Latin American machismo. Director Gabriel Mascaro continually seeks the boundary between masculinity and femininity. Alongside the interests of the main character which seem diffuse to outsiders, the women with whom Iremar works really pack a punch.

Neon Bull had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in 2015, promptly winning the Venice Horizons Award – Special Jury Prize.