Cousins: Hilda Hidalgo's Vision of Youth, Friendship, and Empowerment
Costa Rican filmmaker Hilda Hidalgo, known for her acclaimed works like "Of Love and Other Demons" and "Violeta at Last," is embarking on a new fiction film project titled "Cousins" ("Primas"). Teaming up with producer Emi Kodo and other talented Costa Rican crew members, Hidalgo aims to blend scripted fiction with a documentary approach in this coming-of-age drama. The story follows two 12-year-old girls who flee their homes after a traumatic event, using their phone cameras to navigate their journey and seek the truth.
Hidalgo's vision for "Cousins" involves a collaborative filmmaking process where the young actresses play an active role in shaping the narrative. Drawing inspiration from her past documentary work in Cuba, she believes in capturing authenticity and intimacy through the actors' own perspectives. By allowing the girls to film moments independently and within the staged scenes, the film's visual language becomes a reflection of their experiences and emotions.
The film delves into themes of desire and sexuality, particularly exploring the delicate balance between wonder and violence that accompanies adolescence. Hidalgo's storytelling aims to shed light on the prevalence of sexual violence in Costa Rica and the impact it has on families and communities. Despite the challenging subject matter, the focus remains on the girls' resilience, agency, and journey towards self-discovery.
While casting decisions are pending additional funding and co-production support, Hidalgo emphasizes the importance of securing resources before involving young actors. She acknowledges the significance of international co-productions for Costa Rican cinema, enabling broader distribution and exposure for local films. Hidalgo's previous works have benefited from collaborations with countries like Colombia and Mexico, expanding the reach of her storytelling beyond national borders.
In conclusion, Hilda Hidalgo's "Cousins" promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of youth, friendship, and empowerment, blending fiction with documentary elements to create a unique cinematic experience. Through the lens of two young girls navigating challenging circumstances, the film aims to spark conversations about resilience, agency, and the complexities of growing up in a world marked by both wonder and violence.