My Imaginary Country

Patricio Guzman's 2022 documentary covers the protests that began on the streets of Santiago in 2019. A reaction that started over a metro fare quickly became a general demand about education, health and work, and millions took to the streets. What distinguishes it is that it speaks only with women. Guzman records the women who joined the demonstrations, gave first aid, took photographs and organised; male voices are almost never heard, and that choice sets the frame. Guzman has long made films about Chile's political history and here compares his own past with the present. The narration is personal and hopeful; the documentary was shot without knowing how the process would end. Who it's for: those who like Latin American political documentary. Who it's not for: viewers expecting a neutral account; the film stands with the demonstrators and does not hide it.