A lyrical and poignant debut feature from an award-winning newcomer that tackles thorny issues of environmentalism, colonialism, and community.
Facing an endless battle with cancer, Noelia (Isel Rodríguez) is ready to accept her fate. Much to the dismay of her doting boyfriend (Maximiliano Rivas), she stops treatment and flees to her native Vieques, a Puerto Rican island off the coast of the mainland. Vieques itself is in recovery, having been contaminated thanks to its long history as a U.S. Naval testing ground. Much of the island remains closed off due to hazardous waste, which has caused a spike of cancer cases like Noelia’s. Joining her mother and childhood friend in the movement to make the island a safer place, Noelia must contend with the legacies of colonialism and come to terms with her own health. [92 min; drama; Spanish with English subtitles]
“The film’s quiet approach doesn’t rely on overworked sentimentality or melodramatic angst. It washes over you, pulling you forward toward its heart through the natural strength of its emotional tide.” — Robert Daniels, RogerEbert.com
"One of Puerto Rico's finest offerings in recent years. Led by Isel Rodríguez's wonderful subtle performance, the compelling, somber drama touches on death, conviction, pain & family. An impressive directorial debut by Glorimar Marrero Sánchez." — Fico Cangiano, CineXpress
"A thought-provoking meditation on the impact of the political on the personal, and on how women’s bodies become the battleground for men’s struggles." — Jonathan Holland, Screen International
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