The Year My Parents Went on Vacation

In 1970, Mauro's parents, Bia and Daniel Stein, are deeply involved in political activism against a repressive military regime in Brazil. As the danger intensifies, they make the difficult decision to flee, leaving Mauro behind in São Paulo.

Bia and Daniel travel from Belo Horizonte to São Paulo to leave their son Mauro with his grandfather Mótel, hoping that he will take care of him during their absence. They reassure him that this is just a vacation, promising to return for the World Cup.

On the very day Mauro arrives in São Paulo, tragedy strikes as his grandfather Mótel passes away unexpectedly. Left alone and confused, Mauro is overwhelmed by the sudden change in his life and the responsibility thrust upon him.

Mauro, now alone, finds solace in the close-knit Jewish community of Bom Retiro. Shlomo, an elderly neighbor and friend of Mótel, steps in to help care for Mauro, providing him with a sense of stability amidst the chaos.

As Mauro adjusts to his new life, he discovers a passion for football and dreams of becoming a goalkeeper. He bonds with other neighborhood kids, including Hanna and Ítalo, who share his enthusiasm for the sport and life.

While in Bom Retiro, Mauro meets various vibrant characters, such as Irene, a beautiful bartender, and her boyfriend, a skilled goalkeeper. These interactions enrich his experience in the community and shape his understanding of life.

As the World Cup approaches, Mauro anxiously awaits the return of his parents, who promised to be back in time for the matches. Days turn into weeks, and with no news from them, his worry begins to deepen.

With Mauro's distress growing, Shlomo takes it upon himself to find out what happened to Mauro's parents. His quest leads him to confront the political realities of the time, risking his own safety to uncover the truth.

Unfortunately, Shlomo's efforts attract attention from the political police, and he is arrested due to his involvement in seeking help for Mauro's family. This moment highlights the dangers faced by those opposing the regime.

Shlomo's perseverance ultimately yields results when he manages to secure the release of Mauro's mother. She returns from imprisonment severely ill, and their reunion is filled with mixed emotions amidst the backdrop of Brazil's World Cup victory.

On the day Mauro's mother returns, Brazil triumphs in the World Cup final, marking a significant moment of unity for the country. However, for Mauro, the joy is overshadowed by the continued absence of his father, who remains missing.

As the film progresses toward its poignant conclusion, Mauro and his mother prepare to leave Bom Retiro, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. This moment encapsulates the sadness of leaving friends behind and facing an uncertain future.

Before embarking on their journey into exile, Mauro bids farewell to the friends he made in Bom Retiro. This emotional goodbye underscores the bonds formed during his challenging time and the cherished memories that he will carry with him.