Álvaro Olmos Torrico’s coming-of-age story THE CONDOR DAUGHTER, tells the story of Ana, the midwife of a rural community in the Bolivian Andes, and her apprentice and adopted daughter Clara, who sings ancient hymns during deliveries.
It offers a look at the generational divide and the clash between old and new values in this part of the world. Clara is torn between her dreams of leaving for the city and becoming a singer, and staying loyal to her mother and the community that enforces cruel, patriarchal rules.
The visuals by cinematographer Nicolás Wong showcase the beauty of the gorgeous Andes and capture the intimate night scenes exquisitely. The mostly non-professional Quechuan cast gives realistic performances. It is a poetic and moving film that does not rely on sentimentality.
The Condor Daughter is part of this year’s Seattle International Film Festival lineup.
