Chile's Oscar Hope: 'Flamingo' Explores Queer Identity

Chile's selection for the 2026 Oscars, 'The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo,' is the directorial debut of Diego Céspedes. The film navigates complex themes of love, discrimination, and community, drawing inspiration from the filmmaker's personal encounters with fear and violence. It boldly addresses societal prejudices through a powerful allegory, reflecting contemporary issues and the search for tenderness.

The narrative centers on Lidia, a young girl in a queer family in the Chilean desert, as a mysterious disease spreads and gay men are scapegoated. Lidia embarks on a quest for truth, challenging the discrimination faced by her community. Céspedes aims for a universal message, hoping the audience connects with the characters' humanity beyond their identities.

Produced by a European consortium and with international distribution deals secured, the film has garnered critical acclaim at festivals like Cannes and San Sebastián. Director Céspedes expresses a deep connection to current global events, emphasizing the need for empathy and human connection amidst rising hate and division, aiming to foster reflection and deep emotional responses from viewers.