On Behalf of My Son sets two release dates: theaters November 5, Netflix November 20
Gabriel Martins’s film opens in selected Brazilian theaters before a simultaneous Netflix release in more than 190 countries.
On Behalf of My Son, titled Vicentina Pede Desculpas in Brazil, opens in selected Brazilian theaters on November 5, 2026 and arrives on Netflix on November 20, simultaneously in more than 190 countries. Local cinema listings determine the available cities and screenings.
The fictional story begins with a bus crash in Belo Horizonte. Driver Wesley and several passengers die, and analysis of security footage prompts speculation that he acted deliberately. These are events within the film, not a report of a real accident.
Rejane Faria plays Vicentina, Wesley’s mother and a 75-year-old retired teacher. Amid grief and accusations, she seeks out the victims’ families to apologize. Her search brings uncertain responsibility, other people’s pain and her own need for answers to the foreground.
Gabriel Martins is the director, screenwriter and author of the original story. Netflix described the film as the only Brazilian selection in the 51st Toronto International Film Festival’s Platform competition; selection is not an award. The two release dates are 15 days apart: cinema viewers should check their local listings, while Netflix viewers have November 20 to look toward.
