Selected as a nominee for Best Foreign film at next month's Oscars, this is a heartbreaking but ultimately uplifting drama from Chile. It is co-written and beautifully directed by Sebastian Lelio. It features a remarkable and yes, fantastic performance by Daniela Vega as Marina, a transgender woman struggling to get her life in order after her lover dies suddenly.
After a birthday celebration, Orlando (played by Francisco Reyes), thirty years her senior, awakens feeling ill. While waiting for Marina, his illness is complicated by a fall down a flight of stairs. Marina takes him to the hospital but he soon dies, leaving Marina in shock and confusion. Questioned and examined by the police, harassed and ostracized by Orlando's family, Marina's world is further turned upside down.
While a fictitious story, there is so much ugly truth here that it only serves to heighten the amazing performance by Ms. Vega. As a transgender woman, one must believe she has dealt with (and may continue to deal with) many of the prejudices and hate faced by Marina in the film.
What makes it even more compelling is just how universal her story really is. Anyone can relate to the terrible circumstances faced by Marina, made only more complicated for her as a transgender woman. Ms. Vega performance is heartbreaking but her strength shines through the sadness and her raw, honest portrayal borders on magical.
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