| Description |
In the 1960s, Latin American film underwent a transformation in which filmmakers focused on creating a conversation about society that would bring about political change. Film from this time period, known as the New Latin American Cinema, began to have social and political importance and was not produced simply as a means of creating leisure or recreational opportunities. Despite its lasting impact, the 21st century has seen another shift take place within Latin American film that goes away from the militant commitment of the New Latin American Cinema, but doesn't outright reject its social and political motivations. This new trend, which does still have a goal of creating change in society, focuses on intimate and affective landscapes that open conversations about socio-political issues. A recurring theme throughout much of the cinema produced in Latin America in the 21st century is the role of the caregiver. Hispanic film has been addressing this theme from conventional and unconventional situations, bringing up a conversation about the differences in socially imposed gender roles and how they relate to caregiving. The films El Limpiador (dir. Adrián Saba, 2012 Peru) and Amazona (dir. Clare Weiskopf, 2016 Colombia) focus on the role of the caregiver. El Limpiador is based on the struggles and awkwardness that a male character faces when forced by circumstance to be a primary caregiver. On the other hand, Amazona looks at the struggles that two siblings confront because their female primary caregiver was not consistent during their upbringing. Comparing these films sheds light on current perceptions held by Latin American society regarding the role of the caregiver. While unspoken cultural norms often allow the father to be absent and unaccountable in the upbringing of children, these films show that they are capable of playing an impactful role in, and can be accountable for, their actions within family life in the same crucial way as the mother. |
