The Strong Ones (2019), directed by Omar Zรบรฑiga Hidalgo, is a poignant and evocative drama about love, identity, and the struggles of marginalized communities. The film is set against the backdrop of Chile, and it follows the life of a young man named รngel, who, in the pursuit of a more authentic existence, becomes entangled in a complex relationship with two other individuals: Felipe and Sara. The narrative dives deep into themes of loneliness, repression, and the quest for self-acceptance in a society that often marginalizes those who deviate from normative paths.
The story begins with รngel, a young, charismatic man who has recently moved from the rural countryside to the bustling city of Santiago. Despite his seemingly optimistic journey to a new life, รngel is faced with the harsh realities of urban existence and the unspoken social divides that exist within Chilean society. Through his interactions with Felipe, a man whose life is colored by his own struggles with identity, รngel begins to discover the depth of his own feelings, especially when he finds himself drawn to a love that feels as elusive as it is forbidden. The dynamic between รngel and Felipe becomes the heart of the film, offering a powerful exploration of loveโs capacity to transcend boundaries and expectations.
As the narrative progresses, the audience is introduced to Sara, a fierce and independent woman who embodies strength and vulnerability in equal measure. Although initially, her role in the story may appear secondary, Saraโs presence and relationship with both รngel and Felipe evolve into a significant emotional anchor within the plot. Her own struggles with societal expectations, particularly in the context of gender roles, provide a striking contrast to the story of รngel and Felipe, further enriching the narrative and highlighting the complexities of self-expression. Her relationship with both men takes unexpected turns, adding depth and layers to the emotional undercurrents of the film.
The filmโs cinematography is exceptional, effectively capturing the rawness of the charactersโ emotions while also illustrating the stark contrast between the urban environment of Santiago and the internal worlds of the protagonists. The camera work mirrors the intimacy of the story, placing the audience within the very personal moments shared by the characters. The director's ability to capture the nuances of the human experienceโfear, longing, joy, and sorrowโis evident in the delicate pacing and the focus on minute details, such as the subtle gestures and expressions that reveal the complexity of relationships. The urban landscape of Santiago serves as both a backdrop and a character in itself, reflecting the tension between the external world and the internal desires of the characters.
What sets The Strong Ones apart from other films in this genre is its unapologetic exploration of queer love and desire in a society that often views such relationships as deviant or taboo. The filmโs portrayal of the emotional and physical intimacy shared by รngel and Felipe is both tender and unflinching, breaking down barriers of shame and fear that often surround LGBTQ+ narratives. It also presents a raw and honest depiction of the consequences that come with expressing love and desire in a world that is frequently inhospitable to those who are perceived as different. In this sense, the film is not only a love story but also a commentary on the societal pressures that shape and constrain individual freedom.
The emotional impact of The Strong Ones is undeniable. As the film unfolds, it becomes evident that the characters are engaged in a delicate balancing act, attempting to reconcile their personal desires with the expectations of those around them. The eventual realization that love, in its many forms, can be both a source of strength and vulnerability is what ultimately propels the story forward. The film ends on a note of quiet reflection, leaving the audience with the lingering question of how much we are willing to sacrifice in the name of love and whether it is possible to be true to oneself in a world that demands conformity.
The Strong Ones offers a deeply moving exploration of the human experience, highlighting the complexities of love, identity, and self-acceptance. Through its sensitive portrayal of marginalized individuals, the film provides an intimate look at the challenges of finding oneโs place in a world that often demands conformity. It is a powerful reminder that strength is not just found in defiance, but also in the vulnerability that comes with being true to oneself. Whether through the powerful performances of its cast, the evocative cinematography, or the thoughtful storytelling, The Strong Ones serves as an essential contribution to LGBTQ+ cinema, offering a narrative that is as beautiful as it is heartbreaking.
