Clandestine Childhood

Juan just wants to be himself. But his parents are Argentine guerillas, so it's not that easy. Loosely inspired by events in director Benjamin Ávila's life, CLANDESTINE CHILDHOOD follows Juan's family as they return to Argentina after years of exile. Constantly under the threat of being found, they assume fake identities. As “Ernesto,” Juan begins to make friends and eventually falls in love with Maria. After his uncle Beto kills himself during a standoff with police, the family's safety becomes even more compromised. His parents decide it's best to move, leaving Juan heartbroken. He won't see Maria anymore and she'll never understand why. The secret life he's forced to live becomes more difficult as Juan matures. He loves his parents dearly and, as much as a child can, he understands their cause. But is it all worth it? What will happen to Juan and his baby sister if his parents are killed? CLANDESTINE CHILDHOOD examines what it's like to grow up in a state of secrecy and constant fear. (In Spanish with subtitles) – E.F.