The documentary “Neymar: Bolivia’s Ladder Boy” follows the story of an 11-year-old boy named Neymar who works as a “ladder boy” at a cemetery in Sucre, Bolivia to support his family. Neymar cleans tombs for visitors in exchange for a meagre amount of money, which he uses to help his mother after the death of his father. Despite his difficult circumstances, Neymar dreams of a better education that he cannot afford.
As the annual Day Of The Dead celebrations approach, hundreds of additional people are expected to visit the cemetery, offering Neymar the opportunity to earn more money. With this potential for increased earnings, Neymar hopes to be able to finally afford the education he dreams of. However, the challenges of grief and the physical toil of his work weigh heavily on Neymar as he faces an uncertain future.
The documentary sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many children in Bolivia who are forced to work at a young age to support their families. Neymar’s story highlights the struggle for education and opportunities in a country where poverty and inequality are significant issues. Despite the odds stacked against him, Neymar remains determined to pursue his dream of a better education and a brighter future.
Director Lisa Estella captures Neymar’s resilience and determination as he navigates the challenges of his daily life while holding onto hope for a better future. The camera follows Neymar as he goes about his work at the cemetery, interacting with visitors and reflecting on his dreams and aspirations. Through Neymar’s story, the documentary highlights the strength and perseverance of children facing adversity in Bolivia.
“Neymar: Bolivia’s Ladder Boy” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of access to education and opportunities for all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background. Neymar’s story is a poignant example of the struggles faced by many young people around the world who are forced to work in difficult conditions to survive. The documentary serves as a call to action to address the systemic issues of poverty and inequality that prevent children like Neymar from achieving their full potential.
In documenting Neymar’s journey, the film offers a glimpse into the resilience and determination of a young boy who refuses to let his circumstances define his future. Neymar’s story serves as a testament to the power of hope and determination in the face of adversity, offering a message of inspiration and resilience to viewers around the world. “Neymar: Bolivia’s Ladder Boy” is a moving and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges faced by a young boy in Bolivia, and a powerful call to action to address the root causes of poverty and inequality that impact children’s lives.
