Gabriel Garcia At the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Chilean director Diego Céspedes’ debut feature, The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo, clinched the top honor in the Un Certain Regard section, a category dedicated to showcasing innovative and daring cinematic voices. The film captivated audiences and jurors alike with its poignant exploration of identity, fear, and resilience during a turbulent period in Chile’s history.
A Bold Vision from a Rising Talent
Set in a remote mining town in northern Chile in 1984, The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo follows 12-year-old Lidia as she navigates the complexities of a community gripped by fear over a mysterious illness. The disease, shrouded in superstition, is believed to be transmitted through eye contact between men who fall in love, leading to paranoia and the ostracization of the queer community. As her brother Alexo and his partner Flamingo face increasing hostility, Lidia confronts the town’s prejudices, seeking to protect her family and challenge the myths fueling the hysteria.
Céspedes, who previously participated in Cannes’ Cinéfondation Residence and other international film development programs, delivers a narrative that intertwines personal and political themes, shedding light on the stigmatization faced by marginalized communities during the early days of the AIDS crisis.
A Festival Highlight
Premiering in the Un Certain Regard section, known for spotlighting distinctive storytelling and emerging filmmakers, The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo stood out among a strong lineup of contenders. The film’s evocative portrayal of love, loss, and defiance resonated deeply, earning it the section’s highest accolade.
In his acceptance speech, Céspedes remarked, “This award doesn’t celebrate perfection. It celebrates that fear, that stubbornness to exist just as we are, even when it makes others uncomfortable.
International Collaboration and Acclaim
The film is a Chilean-led international co-production involving France, Belgium, Spain, and Germany. Its development journey included participation in esteemed programs such as the TorinoFilmLab and the Sundance Institute’s Producers Summit, reflecting a collaborative effort to bring this compelling story to the screen.
Critics have lauded the film for its emotional depth and artistic vision. Cineuropa described it as “an ambitious and emotionally complex debut,” highlighting its blend of personal narrative and broader social commentary.
A Testament to Courage and Creativity
The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo not only marks a significant achievement for Diego Céspedes but also underscores the power of cinema to confront challenging subjects with empathy and artistry. As the film continues to garner attention, it stands as a testament to the resilience of those who, in the face of adversity, choose to tell their stories and assert their identities
