The film “Queens” (Reinas) delves deep into the intersections of personal history and national identity, serving as Switzerland’s official entry for the International Feature Oscar. Despite its European roots, the narrative takes place in Peru and is presented in Spanish, effectively bridging cultural spaces while focusing on the often tumultuous familial associations in times of crisis. Director Klaudia Reynicke’s journey resonates throughout the film as it encapsulates her return to her native country after years spent in Europe and the U.S. This endeavor was not merely artistic; Reynicke suggests that it fulfilled a deep-seated need for reconnection to her heritage.
Through her reflections during a panel at Deadline’s Contenders Film showcase, it is apparent that Reynicke’s decision to create this film was driven by an unconscious desire to revisit her past. “I had a need of going back to Peru and shooting something in Spanish,” she remarked, illuminating the existential quest many artists face—one that cinema often provides a vehicle to explore. This allows for a greater dialogue within viewers about their own relationships with home, family, and self.
“Queens” unfolds against a backdrop of social and political turmoil in Peru during the early 1990s, a period marked by upheaval and uncertainty. The film centers around fictional characters, yet it remains heavily influenced by the director’s lived experiences and cultural milieu. At the center of the narrative is Elena, a single mother navigating her role as a caregiver for daughters Lucía and Aurora amidst impending decisions that will dictate their future. The precarious situation requires her estranged partner, Carlos, to engage in a pact that ultimately impacts their family dynamic.
Reynicke’s work raises vital questions about familial reconciliation, sacrifice, and the facets of love—capturing a moment in time where personal relationships are impacted by larger societal forces. As the plot unfolds, we observe the evolution of relationships, particularly between Carlos and his daughters, who initially harbor skepticism towards his intentions. The complexity of their interactions reveals layers of resentment, hope, and the potential for healing.
Critically, Gonzalo Molina’s portrayal of Carlos is compelling as his character embodies vulnerability and the quest for forgiveness. He views his daughters as “queens,” a title simmering with both adoration and his own feelings of inadequacy. Molina explains that this self-designation reflects Carlos’s belief in his daughters’ potential—one he struggles to recognize in himself. The film poignantly captures the bond between father and daughters by displaying the fragile progress toward rebuilding trust.
Luana Vega, who plays Aurora, further reveals the dynamics of strained relationships, indicating her character’s awareness of their absent father. Through her portrayal, audiences discern the nuances of familial loyalty and distrust—concepts that underscore many real-world relationships. The familial tapestry becomes richer as the narrative progresses toward its emotional climax.
As the story marches toward a bittersweet conclusion, Reynicke champions a narrative arc that, while stemming from a place of separation, ultimately emphasizes the power of love and unity. The film culminates with a poignant realization that togetherness, even towards an ending, can signify growth and intimacy within a family. Reynicke’s statement, “When you feel that this group of people is becoming a family finally… that’s when you know there is going to be a big separation,” encapsulates the resilience of familial ties.
“Queens” lifts the veil on complex relationships and the impact of external pressures on the individual psyche. In navigating the personal journeys of its characters, the film becomes more than a recounting of a story; it stands as a testament to the healing properties of cinema in confronting and exploring one’s roots, providing a relevant glimpse into the human experience. Through this lens, Reynicke has created a film that resonates with audiences far beyond its geographical boundaries, underscoring the universal themes of love, loss, and reconciliation.