In Her Place

I watched this movie on Netflix, expecting a conventional crime drama. I was surprised to discover a sensitive, complex and accurate film. The characters, based on a real case, are designed in a subtle, but powerful way, by the actors and the director. The film is not satisfied with just bringing the story to the viewer, but also manages to formulate an interesting statement on the feminist issue, referring to Chile in the 1950s. The main actress, in the role of Mercedes, plays a complex and multi-layered character, and she does it very successfully, in my opinion, on the one hand, she plays a restrained and introverted role, but at the same time she manages to express the drama that takes place inside her in an impressive way and is highly recommended.

A very beautiful movie about the burdens and exhaustions of women, the woman searching for herself and finding it in peace and privacy.

When a woman finds a place for herself to elevate herself and live her own time, it becomes a refuge, as she said, "I am tired of the noise. I want some peace." Stories always present some kind of female role that focuses on motherhood or maturity. You have not found a film like this about the desire for peace and tranquility and the restoration of the soul. I loved it and wanted it very much.

A very wonderful and very calm movie that touched me deeply and I believe that the story has roots or is an adaptation of a previous story.

A wonderful, wonderful, very nice movie.

As chilean I felt so proud of this movie. The story is factual and accurate (except for the main character, that is). The author and the book are one of our dear readings, so I felt moved, and prompt to learn more about the background. Little did I know about Maria Carolina Geel and her own deeds at the time, and how Gabriela Mistral gave her a hand to set her free. Same as in the film, I don't believe that any woman close to the culture can feel uninvited somehow, and being dragged to experience a bit of the same sorority . The movie is pleasure to watch, well written and narrated; calm and introspective. Some criticism can be harsh, but quite real and again, accurate. At some point, there was a fight inside of me with the main character, but I couldn't help being absorbed by a recurrent call for compassion that leaves so much space for self expression. Many arguments were constructed subtlety, yet that wasn't the true intention. Not even the main trigger was relevant. The movie moves on a different layer, far from the mainstream. If you are looking for an experience rather than mere entertainment, this might be your option.

Watched this dubbed version and am now convinced I need to watch it in the original Spanish, which I imagine (I hope!) provides the texture, the sensuality, the richness that is sorely lacking in the English dubbing. Production values are uncommonly high which give the film its consistently stunning appeal. I won't comment on the acting because it was so compromised by the dubbing...why isn't the voice actors' work of a higher caliber, one befitting the story and the production?

An integral storyline is buried until near the end: The writer Geel's criminal act is a 'copycat' of one committed by the more famous Chilean author María Luisa Bombal. The film's title-and indeed, entire narrative-takes on greater resonance when that fact is underscored, which it's not in this film, except for a fleeting reference toward the film's end. The titular phrase, "in her place," makes more sense when that factual, fascinating detail is revealed-too late, unfortunately. Why did Geel follow in Bombal's footsteps, criminally speaking? Was she trying to accrue to herself some of the more famous writer's biographical reality (and allure)--just as Mercedes temporarily takes on aspects of Geel's glamorous, glittery life? There is so much exceptionally rich terrain that was left uncovered by the filmmaker here!

! This film is, without a doubt, one of the best movies I've seen in recent years. From the very beginning, it pulls you into its world with a captivating story and a perfectly paced narrative that never feels rushed or slow. The script is incredibly well-written, filled with emotional depth, clever dialogue, and powerful moments that stay with you long after the film ends.

The performances by the cast are absolutely phenomenal. Every actor brings their character to life in a way that feels completely genuine and believable. The lead role, in particular, is played with such intensity and vulnerability that it's impossible not to be moved. The chemistry between the characters adds another layer of richness to the story, making every scene more impactful.

Visually, the movie is stunning. The cinematography is beautiful, with breathtaking shots and artistic camera work that enhances the mood and tone of the film. The use of lighting and color is thoughtful and deliberate, contributing to the emotional atmosphere in a subtle yet powerful way.