Zoila

Distributed by Pragda, 302 Bedford Ave., #136, Brooklyn, NY 11249Produced by Luciana Pinilla and Adela CofréDirected by Gabriela Pena2021, Streaming, 78 mins This award-winning documentary short presents a deeply personal narrative from the filmmaker’s perspective, as she reflects on her memories and the relationship she shared with her live-in housekeeper and nanny, Zoila. The filmmaker embarks on a journey to explore which memories are worth preserving, and who defines the concept of family. The film poignantly interrogates the dynamics between wealthy families and their hired nannies, questioning whether children perceive these caregivers as genuine individuals or merely as commodities. While the film unfolds at a deliberate pace, it evokes the sentiments expressed by Kindra Hall, who posits that everyone has stories worthy of being shared, irrespective of their dramatic weight. Hall highlights the challenge many face in recognizing the narrative potential within their own lives, urging viewers to appreciate the multitude of stories that shape our experiences. This perspective encourages the audience to embrace the filmmaker’s narrative as a genuine portrayal meant for shared reflection. The filmmaker’s exploration is enriched by critically examining archival footage from her childhood, especially following her parents' separation. This footage reveals Zoila's consistent presence in the filmmaker’s life, often overshadowing that of her parents. Zoila, an Indigenous Mapuche woman from south-central Chile, is urged to embark on this journey as a caretaker without regrets, leaving her own family behind to fulfill the role of nanny for the filmmaker and her sister. Throughout her tenure, Zoila navigates the complexities of cultural differences and house management, often facing criticisms from the filmmaker’s mother, who grapples with understanding Mapuche customs. As the family seeks opportunities, Zoila's narrative also unfolds—she eventually gains independence and strives to create her own family in Chile. Her periodic correspondence through letters and postcards offers glimpses into her life and struggles. The filmmaker's decision to accompany Zoila back to her homeland serves as an attempt to delve deeper into the intricacies of Mapuche culture. However, Zoila often appears hesitant to articulate her true feelings and experiences about her time as a caretaker, likely influenced by the imposed expectation of having no regrets. Near the film's conclusion, a sense of closure appears, highlighting footage that includes Zoila, the filmmaker's biological mother, and the children in moments of familial bonding. While it is noted that the mother and Zoila have developed a close friendship, ambiguity lingers over whether their bond exists in the present or is a cherished remnant captured on film. The film employs a non-linear storytelling approach that can be challenging, occasionally leading to confusion about the narrative’s context and the focus of shared stories. Despite these narrative complexities, I highly recommend this film—albeit with reservations—particularly for those engaged in Film, Gender, and Indigenous Studies. The film is presented in Spanish with English subtitles, further enriching the cultural experience. Awards:FIDBA Int’l Documentary Film Festival, Best Film Award