Clandestine Childhood

Directed by Benjamín Ávila
Film Movement
2012
110 Minutes
Argentina, Spain, Brazil
Spanish
Coming of Age, Latin American, Drama
Not Rated

1979: after years of exile, 12-year-old Juan and his family return to Argentina under fake identities. Juan’s parents are members of a left-wing political organization which is fighting against the Military Junta that rules the country. Because of their activities they are in constant danger of being captured by the oppressive government regime. But young Juan is still a child, and his world consists of his friends at school and his crush, Maria. He knows his family's survival is at stake and accepts this reality until one day he is told that they must flee again immediately, and leave his friends and Maria behind without an explanation. This is a story about militancy, undercover life, and love. The story of a clandestine childhood.

Director & Cast

  • Director: Benjamín Ávila
  • Starring: Natalia Oreiro
  • Starring: Ernesto Alterio
  • Starring: César Troncoso
  • Starring: Teo Gutiérrez Moreno

Trailer

Photos

Reviews

  • "Seductive! An intimate, richly tactile and impressionistic picture of a 'once-upon-a-time' in childhood."
    Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
  • "Impressive! Ávila is an artist worth keeping an eye on."
    David Fear, Time Out New York
  • "Vibrant! A charming, involving first feature!"
    Alan Scherstuhl, The Village Voice