Educational Media Reviews Online

Inspired by a true story, this film is set in a juvenile prison in Chile. The story centers around two brothers, Angel and Franco, as they navigate life inside the prison and befriend other prisoners. Characters fantasize about getting out - expressing immediate desires rather than future goals. As the story unfolds, the viewer sees the different characters and how they bond to create their own family. Boredom gives way to unrest, and events culminate in a failed riot that ends in absolute chaos. An unexpected ending that symbolizes failed dreams and harsh realities.

The film highlights several issues existing in the juvenile prison system in Chile. At the end of the film, you are confronted with the reality of this being based on a true story. The viewer is confronted with this just being one story of many as the number of deaths in juvenile prisons is quite large. Mental health and suicide come up as issues in this film. Great acting with compelling scenes. A great film for South American studies, especially regarding social issues and teenagers. Easily recommended for high school and up.

Awards:
Locarno Film Festival, Best Film; Chilean Film Festival, Best Director and many others; Cannes Écrans Juniors, High School Jury Award, College Jury Award; Guadalajara Int'l Film Festival, Best Film, Best Screenplay, Best Actor; Cinélatino Rencontres De Toulouse, Best Film, Audience Award

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