Featuring interviews with kidnappers, victims of kidnapping, and the people who profit from both, the film portrays the "tragic domino effect that has reshaped the face of Brazil and created an entire industry built on corruption," according to Sundance literature.
"Phyllis and Preston didn't just sign me," Kohn recalled. "They spent time getting to know me. I could tell this would be a rich working relationship and it's already proving to be just that." Prior to embarking on his filmmaking debut, Kohn spent nearly four years as research assistant to iconic director Errol Morris. "Whether the subject is fact or fiction, my focus is on filmmaking," Kohn noted. "Errol always called advertising a 'cinematic haiku' and I try to stay true to that."
Kohn went to great lengths to achieve a cinematic look and scope for MANDA BALA, which more closely resembles an action or sci-fi movie than a documentary. "The political corruption and violent crime is so extreme, it feels like the stuff of fiction," said Kohn. "The bullet-proof car industry alone is huge." Filmed by spot veteran Heloisa Passos, MANDA BALA also took home the Sundance award for Excellence in Cinematography. "Most of my crew came from the spotmaking community in Brazil," Kohn pointed out.
Raised on Long Island, this son of an American father and Brazilian mother sold his car and saxophone to raise the initial funds needed to start production on the film. He then sought private financing wherever he could find it. "I had to tell this story. No one on the outside knows what this society is really like," Kohn said. "And no one on the inside will see this film."
"I knew at Sundance that Jason could easily make the transition into spots," said Lee. "After seeing the film, his talent was obvious, but after sitting down with him, his energy and passion for film were infectious."
Kohn rounds out an àœber Content roster comprised of Jordan Brady, Todd Field, Jeffrey Fleisig, Gentlemen, Stewart Hendler, Sean Mullens, and Marc Schà¶lermann.
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