Visceral Chilean Docs Head to Cannes for Fifth Annual Showcase, Featuring Chile and Cuba’s Parallel Battles, a Chilean Cowboy, an Argentine Sex Worker

The acclaimed Chilean filmmaker Maite Alberdi’s Oscar-nominated documentary “The Mole Agent” has been turned into the popular Netflix comedy series “A Man on the Inside,” created by Michael Schur and featuring Ted Danson. This transformation suggests that heartfelt and diverse Chilean tales have a strong potential to reach global audiences.

Chilean documentary filmmakers persist in challenging the oppressive regime of their country, focusing on individual stories and breaking societal norms, all while remaining sensitive to societal changes. They consistently explore a diverse range of topics, providing both education and entertainment.

Chilean documentarians continue to tackle the nation’s repressive government, delve into personal tales, and break down taboos by staying attuned to broader social shifts. Their work encompasses a wide variety of themes that serve both as an educational resource and a source of captivation.

This year, four emotionally powerful Chilean documentaries will be displayed to industry professionals at the nation’s fifth straight Cannes Doc showcase. Additionally, 11 more projects from Chile will be introduced to the market, with “Malqueridas,” the latest work by Tana Gilbert who won the Venice Critics’ Week Grand Prize, and “Burning Daddy” (“Papito Corazón”) being among them.

Today, Chilean documentaries are stirring a variety of feelings and thoughts, offering intriguing ideas not only in their storytelling but also in their structure, as stated by Paula Ossandon, the director of Chiledoc, in an interview with EbMaster.

Creativity, originality, and sensitivity shine through in the perspectives, as well as in the stories presented. These qualities have gained international recognition, making Cannes Docs a global platform for Chilean documentaries. There, collaborations have been formed, and projects have flourished, earning accolades.

2021 brings a collection of films featuring complex characters driven by inner resolve. These stories delve into the impacts on children separated from their families through adoption, toxic emotional relationships, the blurring of fantasy and reality, both in the minds of our protagonists and in the filmmaking process. The cinematic techniques used are diverse and daring, resulting in visually stunning presentations. Chilean documentary productions this year are numerous and offer a lively, engaging perspective.

The Chilean Docs showcase will be held on Monday, May 19 at the Palais des Festivals. 

Chile Doc Selections

“The Grand Illusion” (“La gran ilusión”), Sebastián Pereira

In collaboration with Gatoperro Films from Chile and La Copa Feliz, this movie combines reality and storytelling, tracing Cuban actor Roberto’s journey through Havana’s historic streets under the impression that he’s been chosen for a Netflix series. As the challenges escalate, the film subtly reflects the shared struggles of both Cuba and Chile.

As a movie reviewer, I’d put it this way: “I’ve always felt a strong bond between Chile and Cuba, stemming from our shared experiences of strife and mutual ideals. This connection sparked the idea for my film, as I sought to rekindle dreams that once ignited us – dreams of a more equitable, compassionate society where cinema could serve as a medium to envision our collective future.

“No Money No Honey,” Nicole Costa

As a cinephile, I recently watched a captivating film titled “Maxima,” directed by visionary minds from Mimbre Films (Chile) and Nicole Costa Films. This poignant production also received valuable input from Brava Cine in Argentina.

In this moving tale, we follow the journey of Maxima, a resilient Argentine woman who once worked as a sex worker. The narrative takes us through her past, which was marred by traumatic experiences, and charts a path toward self-discovery and emancipation. This film dares to break away from traditional portrayals of the profession, offering a refreshing perspective that invites the audience to contemplate the complexities of this world.

Producer Daniela Camino explains that our movie bravely offers a straightforward, unyielding portrayal of the sex industry, steering clear of traditional or shallow storylines. It emphasizes the importance of consent and safe sexual practices, starkly contrasting with the world of sexual coercion and exploitation where consent is non-existent. Máxima’s personal narrative provides a heartfelt look into how she used sex as both a means of survival and a platform for self-discovery, enjoyment, and individual fulfillment.

“The Tiger of the East” (El tigre del este”), Jorge Acevedo

A youthful Chilean ranch hand embarks on a mission to realize his aspiration as a musician. Being self-taught and resolute, the movie chronicles his odyssey as he endeavors to present his tunes to Los Tigres del Norte.

As a follower, I’m sharing my perspective on a documentary produced by Yareta Films and Queltehue Films. This captivating piece chronicles the challenging journey we all face in pursuit of our dreams. By adopting an observational and storytelling approach, it skillfully integrates ranchera music as a unique motif throughout the film, focusing on the journey of a humble Chilean musician striving for success in Mexico, as producer Mixie Araya describes.

“Landless Children” (“Los niños sin tierra”), René Ballesteros

In Europe, two individuals embark on a journey to discover their heritage, one traveling to Mapuche lands and the other revisiting a forgotten territory. This film, “Ballesteros” (“La Quemadura”), by the Cinema du Reel’s Joris Ivens Award Winner, delves into intricate feelings of loss, wonder, and self-discovery. The production is a collaboration between France’s Les Films D’Ici and Chile’s La Madre and La Ballesta.

Further Chilean Documentaries at the Marché du Film:

“Burning Daddy” (“Papito corazón), Tana Gilbert

Via paintings, court documents, and fragments of recollections, a family employs creativity and whimsy to rebuild an imperfect father figure, dealing with the harm and turmoil he caused. This moving project is a collaboration between Chile’s Errante, Germany’s Dirk Manthey Films, and Spain’s Isolda Films.

“Knowing Your Nature,” Francisca Silva

An immersive and engaging mixed reality adventure that replicas a lush forest environment, guiding participants along various trails leading to wisdom. This captivating production is created by María Jose Díaz from Galgo Storytelling in Chile.

“The Letelier File” (“Expediente Letelier”), Rafael Valdeavellano and Nicolás Acuña  

A true crime show exploring the 1976 terrorist plot targeting Orlando Letelier, an opponent of Pinochet, which reveals a broad and foreboding web of covert activities. This series is penned by Julio Rojas (“Case 63”) and produced by La Ventana Cine (“Chicago Boys”).

“Black Cocaine” (“Cocaína negra”), Cristóbal Valenzuela 

As I sat down to review “Blume” and “Passaparola,” two gripping films that unearth a chilling chapter of South American history, I found myself delving into the dark tale spun by Eugenio Barríos – a biochemist with ties to Augusto Pinochet’s regime. In these recordings, Barríos recounts his harrowing reign, marked by the creation of deadly bioweapons and illicit drugs designed to further the regime’s nefarious goals. The films offer a chilling glimpse into this violent era, shedding light on the dark secrets that have long been buried beneath the surface.

“The Last Witness” (“El último testigo”), Francesc Relea

A recognition goes out to Luis Poirot, a photographer from Santiago, whose striking black-and-white images persistently capture both the emotionally charged political instances and everyday life of Chile. The productions “Chile’s Villano” and “What’s Up Doc” of Spain’s house are involved.

Luis Poirot, a photographer born in Santiago, is acknowledged for his powerful black-and-white images that freeze Chilean political drama as well as ordinary life into timeless moments. The productions “Chile’s Villano” and “What’s Up Doc” hail from Spain.

“The Capture” (“La captura”), Rafael Valdeavellano

The movie, titled “Colonia Dignidad” and created by Chile’s La Ventana Cine, delves into the account of tracking down and apprehending Paul Schäfer, a German preacher infamous for his role in Colonia Dignidad – a notorious settlement where Pinochet dissidents were subjected to cruelty, including torture and murder. The film highlights the resilience and emotional toll experienced by those involved in bringing this case to justice.

“Artifacts of War” (“Artefactos de guerra”), Jorge Cabellero

In this movie, I delve into the profound influence of non-lethal weaponry on our global community as a whole. This compelling documentary blends fact with fiction, unfolding within the backdrop of an arms fair. The film is brought to you by Artefacto Films from Spain and Cangrejo Films based in Chile.

“A Troop of Bears” ( “Un Ejército de osos”), Christian Martínez, Pachi Bustos and Paola Castillo

A son whose father was imprisoned by Chile’s military regime later vanished, encounters the individual who betrayed him in a movie co-produced by Chile’s Errante and Canada’s Ocho. This film delves into complex themes such as betrayal, violence perpetrated by the state, guilt, and redemption.

“The Conference” (“La conferencia”), Rodrigo Marín

Four freedom fighters were compelled to give up to the troops of Pinochet on live television, effectively abandoning their cause. Pursued relentlessly by military authorities and condemned to death by their fellow revolutionaries, only two managed to escape this fate and tried to rebuild their lives. This movie was created by Chile’s Propaganda Cinema.

“Dysphoria Football Club” (Disforia fútbol club”), Inti Lorca

As a passionate film enthusiast, I’d say: “I’m the one who watched a compelling documentary that chronicles the journey of the first transgender, non-binary soccer team in Chile. This movie captures their triumphs and tribulations, highlighting the transformative impact they had on the sport. It’s a powerful tale, produced by the esteemed Chilean production house, Cinespecie.

As a supporter, I find myself delving into the background of Madame Wittmann, uncovering her criminal record. (Nicolás Videla and Anastasia Benavente’s work)

Iconic cabaret figure Evelyn Wittmann is back in Chile, and the local transgender community is trying to aid her in locating a missing documentary recorded during a police raid. The film’s discovery could help preserve history and bring justice. Produced by Chile’s Cinespecie.

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2025-05-17 21:47