Let's dive headfirst into a vibrant tapestry of moral ambiguity, courtesy of the Peruvian film "Retablo." Directed by Álvaro Delgado-Aparicio, it dropped onto the scene in 2017, making waves with its unique portrayal of a young boy’s struggle with identity and tradition in a small Andean village. While visually captivating with the breathtaking Sierra Mountains as a backdrop, "Retablo" doesn't shy away from challenging cultural norms, much to the consternation of those who prefer their societal constructs unchallenged.
The narrative centers around a 14-year-old boy, Segundo Paucar, who is learning the art of crafting retablos—intricate, colorful dioramas depicting scenes from everyday life. His father, Noé, is his mentor, the revered craftsman in their rural community. Everything seems to be on track for Segundo to follow in his father's footsteps until he accidentally discovers a secret about Noé that shatters his perception of his family and forces him to confront his own beliefs.
The film cleverly tackles complex themes without shoving a political agenda down your throat, but make no mistake—its allegorical splendor is anything but subtle. It paints a picture of how ingrained traditions can strangle personal freedom, an idea that seems to resonate predominantly with audiences who wish to question societal conventions. It’s a provocative bid to analyze purity and corruption within a family structure, a subject that is tender enough to ignite serious debate.
For those who appreciate political correctness, "Retablo" is a treasure trove. It explores the kind of conformity that demands closer scrutiny. Conservatives might argue that upholding family traditions and values should be sacrosanct, but in the dizzying landscapes of "Retablo," we travel through a different kind of chaos—the chaos that ensues when an unexpected truth emerges.
What is particularly fascinating is how the movie portrays masculinity. The retablo itself becomes an artistic metaphor: a means of expressing what cannot be spoken freely. Characters are enmeshed in a silent world, depicting scenes of life, struggle, and, inevitably, disappointment. The father-son dynamic is beautifully tragic, showcasing not just the intricacies of familial bonds but also emphasizing the looming gap when trust is broken, an experience that tastes bitter in the mouth of any tradition-abiding citizen.
The power of "Retablo" lies not just in its story but in how it refuses to provide easy answers. It unveils a society resistant to change yet teetering at the edge of transformation. While some viewers might cheer on this supposed progress, others are left pondering whether this erosion of traditional values is necessarily beneficial. For conservatives with a vested interest in a more structured cultural framework, the film’s liberal leaning narrative stirs the pot.
Visually, "Retablo" is a feast. The choice to showcase the stunning Andean landscapes, complete with sweeping mountains and rustic villages, hints at both the isolation and beauty of Segundo’s world. The film’s cinematography plays on stark contrasts, mirroring the opposing forces within the storyline itself—tradition clashing with individuality, the public faces contrasting private interiors.
It would be an affront not to mention the arduous journey Segundo takes throughout the film. His internal struggle raises questions about who gets to define identity: is it him, or is it the culture surrounding him? If everything around you tells you what you should be, what happens when you start asking, "But what if I disagree?"
Predictably, the film has garnered critical acclaim among circles that champion storytelling that defies conventional norms. It's won multiple awards and earned itself a place in international film festivals, certainly thriving on its ability to shock and wow an audience that loves to see boundaries pushed just all hard enough to make traditionalists a bit queasy.
"Retablo" is undeniably a niche film that speaks to change—intriguing, visually absorbing, yet uncomfortable to digest for those who find solace in time-tested traditions. It is a filmmaking spectacle, illuminating the delicate balance of societal expectations and personal truths through the lens of culture and art. A picture’s worth a thousand words, and this one certainly insists on telling you a story regardless of how it aligns with your beliefs. A challenge, precisely crafted and colorfully articulated.