Key Facts
Chilean filmmaker Valeria Sarmiento, known for over 30 features addressing women's issues in patriarchal societies, is presenting her final directorial work, 'Behind the Rain,' at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival. The film competes in the prestigious Crystal Globe Competition, running from July 3-11.
Plot and Themes
'Behind the Rain' stars Paula Prado as Sofia, a psychology professor preparing to return to her hometown after postgraduate studies. The discovery of a young girl's body there forces her to confront buried childhood trauma. Shot in black and white, the film explores memory and the silencing of abuse. Sarmiento explains, 'When talking about the past, I see it in black and white.' She urges audiences to look 'behind the rain'—a phrase her mother used to encourage attention to detail.
Production Journey
The idea originated during a break while mixing Raúl Ruiz's film, when Sarmiento shared a script with producer Chamila Rodríguez. Rodríguez suggested setting it in Chile, leading to a seven-year collaboration. 'These are stories that the vast majority of women experience, silenced by a patriarchal society,' Rodríguez says. Funding was challenging; Rodríguez calls it 'very difficult' but credits perseverance and love for cinema.
Genre and Style
Though blending detective, thriller, and noir elements, Sarmiento insists, 'This is not a police film. There are no patrols or police cars arresting culprits. The viewer must look beyond that.' The monochrome aesthetic reflects her view of the past.
Impact on Chilean Cinema
Rodríguez emphasizes the need for state funding: 'Cuts to culture are disastrous for our spirit and a setback for the film industry.' Despite challenges, Chile boasts a vibrant new generation of filmmakers like Manuela Martelli and Dominga Sotomayor.
What's Next
Sarmiento and Rodríguez are now focused on restoring Ruiz's 'La Colonia Penal,' aiming for a 2026 premiere.
FAQ
- What is 'Behind the Rain' about? It follows Sofia as a girl's body triggers memories of childhood trauma.
- Why is this Sarmiento's final film? She has decided to retire from directing after this project.
- Where is it premiering? At Karlovy Vary Film Festival's Crystal Globe Competition.