Chile, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant cinema, has produced some compelling lesbian dramas and films that deserve your attention. In this article, we present four must-watch works that beautifully portray the complexities of love, identity, and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community. Spanning different genres and storytelling styles, these Chilean lesbian dramas and films offer a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the captivating world of Chilean queer cinema.
1. “Rara” (2016)
Nominated for the Teddy Award at the 66th Berlin International Film Festival, winner of the Horizontes Award at the 64th San Sebastián International Film Festival (2016). Rara, a young girl, grows up in an LGBT family with two mothers. At the age of 13, her happiness is challenged when her biological father seeks custody.
2. “Joven y alocada” (2012)
Daniela, a 17-year-old girl, yearns for sexual exploration, but her traditional Chilean family restricts her. She finds solace in her blog “Joven y alocada” and interacts with her followers. When she falls for the handsome Tomás, her heart unexpectedly leans towards her coworker Antonia. Daniela realizes that youth and recklessness are like a complex multiple-choice question, deciding who to be with is a tough choice… Winner of the Best Screenplay at the Sundance Film Festival’s World Cinema Dramatic Competition.
3. “Señorita 89” (2022)
In the world of “Señorita 89,” 32 women from different parts of the country gather at a secluded mansion, competing for the title of the most beautiful woman and the coveted crown. Elena, in need of tuition fees, becomes the cultural studies teacher for these beauty contestants. However, she will encounter darkness, conspiracies, and the secrets and honors carried by these women. Delving into the realm of beauty is akin to navigating the deep sea. Bárbara López, who played a Cinderella in the Mexican series “Deep Love,” stars in this production.
4. “La Nave del Olvido” (2020)
After her husband’s passing, Cristina moves in with her daughter and grandson, starting life anew. She befriends a married neighbor, and a sweet romance blossoms between them. However, in the face of the conservative atmosphere of their small town, can Cristina bravely pursue her own path and enjoy the latter part of her life? This is a story of a mature LGBTQ+ individual who maintains a free spirit regardless of age. It bears witness to the best of life beginning at seventy.
