At first glance, it might seem like just another story about a poor family trying to get by in a rural area. However, there’s considerably more going on beneath the surface. It certainly portrays a family dealing with their own issues, echoing Tolstoy’s observation that every unhappy family experiences unhappiness uniquely. What distinguishes this family is the backdrop of an uncaring agricultural corporation. This business doesn't just contribute to their difficulties; it systematically destroys them. It isn’t difficult to see how this narrative could apply to workers for companies like Amazon or Uber – individuals who put in long hours, often without basic necessities, serving wealthy employers hidden from view. The connection is strikingly clear within the film. The deliberate use of extended shots showcasing vast sugar cane fields, which have erased any previous natural beauty, and the consistently dark lighting used to depict the family are both noteworthy details. Also, it’s worth noting that the English translation of the title isn't quite accurate, in my opinion. "Sombra" also signifies shadow, and this family exists within one. A more fitting title would be "Land and Shadow." But the question remains: what is the source of that shadow? That’s ultimately what gives the film its social importance.

Source on TMDB