Esteros (2016) is an Argentinian romantic drama that tells the story of two childhood friends, Matรญas and Jerรณnimo, who reconnect as adults after years of separation. The film beautifully explores themes of love, repression, and self-acceptance against the breathtaking backdrop of the Argentinian wetlands. Through a non-linear narrative that moves between past and present, Esteros captures the innocence of first love and the pain of lost time, as the two men struggle to reconcile their past emotions with their current realities.
As children, Matรญas and Jerรณnimo shared an inseparable bond, growing up together in the serene landscapes of the Esteros del Iberรก. One summer, their friendship blossomed into something deeper, as they discovered their feelings for each other. However, their innocent romance was abruptly cut short when Matรญas' conservative parents decided to move away, separating them. Matรญas, pressured by societal expectations and his familyโs beliefs, gradually suppressed his emotions and drifted into a conventional life. Jerรณnimo, on the other hand, embraced his identity, but never truly moved on from his first love.
Years later, fate brings them back together when Matรญas returns to his hometown with his girlfriend, Rochi. A chance encounter reunites him with Jerรณnimo, who is now an openly gay artist. As they spend time together, their buried emotions resurface, creating a tension that neither of them can ignore. Matรญas, who has spent years living a life dictated by others, is confronted with the undeniable truth of his past. Meanwhile, Jerรณnimo struggles with the pain of rekindled love, unsure if Matรญas will ever have the courage to embrace what they once had.
As Matรญasโ inner turmoil grows, he finds himself drawn back to the freedom and joy he once felt with Jerรณnimo. The lush landscapes of the estuaries serve as a metaphor for their loveโnatural, untamed, and enduring despite time and distance. Throughout the film, flashbacks reveal the depth of their childhood connection, making their present struggle even more heartbreaking. Matรญas must make a choice: continue living a life of denial or finally embrace his true self, regardless of societal expectations. Jerรณnimo, while still in love with Matรญas, refuses to be someoneโs secret again, forcing Matรญas to confront his fears head-on.
In the filmโs emotional climax, Matรญas finally acknowledges his feelings, choosing honesty over repression. The ending is open-ended yet hopeful, suggesting that while time was lost, love still remains. Esteros is a touching and visually stunning exploration of first love, second chances, and the courage it takes to be true to oneself. With its heartfelt performances and poetic storytelling, the film resonates deeply, leaving audiences with a profound appreciation for the beauty of love in its purest form.
