Watch Retablo

Retablo, a 2017 Peruvian drama film starring Magaly Solier, Amiel Cayo, and Junior Bejar, follows the story of a young boy named Segundo who aspires to become an artist like his father Noé, who is known for crafting retablos, a traditional Peruvian artwork. The film is set in a remote village in the Andes, where Noé and his family live a peaceful life. The opening scenes show Noé and Segundo working on a retablo together, carefully carving and painting the wooden figures that will depict a story of their village. The father and son duo has a close bond, and Segundo looks up to his dad for everything.

However, Noé's world is turned upside down when he discovers that his son has been keeping a secret from him. Segundo is in fact gay and is struggling to come to terms with his identity. When Noé finds out, he is shocked and initially reacts with violence towards his son.

As the story unfolds, the film explores themes of love, acceptance, and homophobia within a conservative community. Segundo's struggle to express his true self and find acceptance in his community is heart-wrenching. Despite the challenges, he develops a close relationship with a boy named Mardonio, which brings hope and warmth to the story.

Magaly Solier delivers a powerful performance as Noé's wife, who is torn between her love for her husband and son. Her character's roller coaster of emotions is palpable, and Solier portrays her with great sensitivity. Amiel Cayo, who plays Noé, delivers a nuanced and heart-breaking portrayal of a father who is struggling to reconcile his love for his son with his own prejudices towards homosexuality.

Junior Bejar delivers a stunning performance as Segundo. His portrayal of innocence, vulnerability, and strength is outstanding. He brings to life a character who is struggling with his identity and yet is determined to follow his passion for art. His bond with his father and eventual rift is emotionally charged and leaves a lasting impact.

Retablo, directed by Alvaro Delgado-Aparicio, is an exceptional film that celebrates Peruvian culture while tackling complex themes of identity, acceptance, and love. The gorgeous cinematography captures the breathtaking beauty of the Andes, while the music complements the storytelling with great sensitivity.

The film's exploration of homophobia is particularly poignant, offering an insight into the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community in conservative societies. The story is universal, and the message is clear - that acceptance of oneself and others is the key to happiness and harmony.

In conclusion, Retablo is a must-watch film for anyone interested in art, culture, and powerful storytelling. The film's ability to address complex and sensitive themes with honesty, authenticity, and compassion makes it a gem of Latin American cinema.

Retablo is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.