Brazilian Director Priscilla Kellen Unveils Animated Debut “Papaya”

Brazilian director Priscilla Kellen is set to make her mark in the animation world with the international premiere of her debut feature film, Papaya, at the Berlinale as part of the Generation Kplus competition. This event follows the film’s successful presentation at the Rio Film Festival last October. The film is being handled for international sales by Best Friend Forever, while Gebeka Films manages its distribution rights in France, with a release planned for 2026.

In an exclusive interview with Variety, Kellen shared insights into the creative process behind Papaya, a family-friendly, non-dialogue animated feature that explores themes of parenthood, independence, and environmental awareness. The film employs a unique digital cut-out animation technique, distinguished by its vibrant colors and minimalist style, which Kellen feels accurately reflects the challenges of its protagonist.

From Personal Experience to Artistic Vision

Kellen’s journey into animation began during her undergraduate studies in graphic design. She cites her early exposure to animated series and films, like the claymation of Mio Mao and Pingu, as formative experiences. “I was a middle-class child in a large city in the ‘80s,” she recalls, noting how these visual experiences influenced her creative path.

The inspiration for Papaya blossomed during Kellen’s pregnancy and evolved after the birth of her son. “I felt like I was losing the freedom and autonomy I used to have,” she explains, describing the duality of feeling both like a nurturing mother-tree and a young seed. This deep personal connection to motherhood informs the film’s narrative structure, which focuses on visual storytelling devoid of dialogue.

Addressing the challenges of conveying a rich story without spoken language, Kellen emphasized the need for an expressive animation style. “We aimed to ensure clarity through visual elements, using movements that felt real,” she stated. This approach called for a collaborative effort with the animation team at Birdo studio, who worked diligently to achieve the film’s desired emotional impact.

Unique Artistic Elements and Themes

The animation of Papaya presents a wealth of visual textures and character designs influenced by Kellen’s fascination with geometric abstract art and ethnic patterns. Her research extended to the crafts from regions where papayas are native, enhancing the film’s aesthetic with vibrant and culturally significant designs.

Sound plays a pivotal role in the film, complementing its visual narrative. Kellen noted that sound design was integral from the project’s inception. Music producer Talita Del Collado contributed significantly to the film’s auditory landscape, creating an original soundtrack inspired by nature sounds and various Brazilian musical traditions. The final song, “Borboleta,” performed by singer Tulipa Ruiz, encapsulates the emotional heart of the film.

Through Papaya, Kellen aims to engage with pressing issues like climate change and existential dilemmas, framing them in a light-hearted yet thought-provoking manner suitable for young audiences. “I wanted to offer a space for reflection and personal interpretation,” she stated, aligning perfectly with the ethos of the Generation Kplus selection at Berlinale.

As Kellen prepares for the film’s screenings, she expresses excitement about the representation of Brazilian cinema at the festival. With other notable films also featured, the selection of Papaya underscores a growing recognition of the quality and diversity within Brazilian animation.

“Animation is a medium, not a genre,” Kellen concludes, emphasizing its versatility in storytelling. With Papaya, she hopes to inspire a broader appreciation for animated films that transcend traditional boundaries, inviting audiences of all ages to experience its magical narrative.