On Friday, July 12, 2024, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Embassy of Chile in India, organised an exclusive screening of the Oscar-winning Chilean drama film “A Fantastic Woman” at the LPS Auditorium, PHD House, New Delhi. Having received a personal invite from H.E. Mr Juan Angulo, Ambassador of Chile to India, I attended the event along with my publisher, eager to immerse ourselves in this celebrated piece of cinema.
The evening began with a welcome from the Ambassador of Chile, who highlighted the significance of the 2018 Chilean law recognising the right to gender identity for trans people—a monumental triumph, especially for adolescents aged 14 to 18. This context set the tone for the film, which deals poignantly with themes of identity and societal acceptance.
As the lights dimmed and the film began, we couldn’t help but admire the aesthetically pleasing architecture of the auditorium. The well-designed, soothing interiors complemented by excellent acoustics and modern audiovisual facilities created a perfect ambiance for the cinematic experience.
“A Fantastic Woman,” directed by Sebastián Lelio, unfolded on screen in Spanish with English subtitles. The film follows Marina (played by Daniela Vega), a transgender woman who faces scorn and discrimination after the sudden death of her older boyfriend, Orlando (Francisco Reyes). The narrative dives deep into Marina’s struggles and resilience, highlighting the harsh realities faced by transgender individuals in society.
One of the most striking moments in the film is when Orlando’s ex-wife, Sonia (Aline Kuppenheim), confronts Marina with the cruel words, “When I look at you, I don’t know what I’m seeing. A chimera, that’s what I’m seeing.” This scene encapsulates the prejudice and dehumanization that Marina endures, making her journey all the more poignant.
Daniela Vega’s portrayal of Marina is both luminous and restrained, capturing the character’s inner turmoil and strength with remarkable authenticity. Her performance anchors the film, making it a compelling and emotional watch.
Despite being engrossed in the film, we had to leave the screening midway due to a prior commitment. However, determined to see the story through, I quickly checked on my phone to find out where I could watch the rest of the movie. To my relief, it was available on Amazon Prime Video.
Later that night, I settled in to finish the film. The remaining part of “A Fantastic Woman” did not disappoint. The storyline continued to unfold with the same intensity and grace, culminating in a powerful conclusion that left a lasting impact. The film’s exploration of grief, identity, and the quest for dignity is profound, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in thought-provoking cinema.
My experience with “A Fantastic Woman” was fantastic. The film not only offers a powerful narrative and stellar performances but also serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and the ongoing struggle for the rights and recognition of transgender individuals.
As I reflect on the evening, I am grateful for the opportunity to have attended such an event and to have experienced a film that resonates deeply with contemporary social issues. “A Fantastic Woman” is a tribute to the power of cinema to challenge perceptions and inspire change.
Leave a Reply