Title: The Regent
Logline: When a rebellious princess becomes the regent of Brazil, she must navigate the complexities of court life and political intrigue while advocating for the abolition of slavery.
Synopsis: Based on the real Princess Isabel of Brazil, The Regent tells the story of her unexpected regency and fight to abolish slavery throughout her empire. Although heir to the imperial family, as a woman, Princess Isabel was never expected to rule across Brazil. Instead, her Father, Emperor Dom Pedro II, intended to marry her to a European Prince and birth a son as soon as possible. But Isabel had other ideas. The Regent begins with Isabel’s marriage, not to the for-chosen Prince Ludwig, but to the Frenchman, Gaston Count of Eu, betrothed to her sister. With the support of Amandinha, the mixed-race Viscount’s daughter and Isabel’s best friend, as well as her advisor André Rebouças, the only black man in the imperial council, Isabel uses her wedding as an opportunity to free every slave at the palace. While the abolitionists celebrate, Isabel’s Father and new husband are shocked and enraged by her decision. The Lords and Noblemen of the Court accuse Isabel of theft and treason, with the Baron of Cotegipe outwardly disgusted.
After the wedding, Dom Pedro accosts his daughter for such a ‘thoughtless act’ that has turned Brazilian high society against them. He scolds Gaston for being unable to control his wife, then reveals his plans to leave Brazil in the coming days on a royal tour which will leave Isabel as regent in his absence. Reality sets in on Isabel, she is unprepared to face this weight of responsibility, especially without the favor of the council. But the pressure only grows. Isabel speaks with André on her future as Princess and learns that rumors of a republic are spreading throughout Brazil, not only is Isabel’s regency at stake but the very existence of her and her imperial family. Despite this grave threat of a revolution on the horizon, Amandinha stands firm next to her friend in reminding her that her regency gives her the power to fight for abolition and Isabel must decide whether to protect her family or fight to end slavery in Brazil forever.
