Belén is based on the true story that sparked an international movement, chronicling the harrowing case of Julieta, a young woman falsely accused of infanticide, and Soledad Deza (Dolores Fonzi), the fearless lawyer who takes on the highly controversial, explosive case.
Belén takes us to Tucumán, a conservative region of Argentina, where Julieta's trial becomes a flashpoint for the ongoing fight for women's reproductive rights. As Soledad faces off against a corrupt, classist, and patriarchal legal system, Julieta's story ignites a groundswell of outrage and solidarity, galvanizing an unstoppable movement for justice and bodily autonomy.
The Garden Cinema View:
Based on the real case of Belén, an Argentinian woman who miscarried a fetus she was unaware she was even carrying, this is a suspenseful and moving story of her unjust eight-year incarceration and her lawyer's relentless efforts to bring her justice. The story is even more significant considering this real case became the catalyst for Argentina's feminist movement and a crucial first step towards the legalisation of abortion in the country.
At a time when women's reproductive rights are at stake, this is a poignant film that exemplifies how solidarity and perseverance can make a real difference and create lasting change in the system. The film is gracefully told and well-crafted, especially considering its low budget, and features very strong performances by director Dolores Fonzi and Camila Plaate as Belén.
