MTV Documentary Films is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return theatrical engagement of its critically acclaimed documentary, The Eternal Memory. Directed by Maite Alberdi, this Oscar-nominated film captures a beautiful love story reminiscent of iconic narrative features such as Amour and Doctor Zhivago. Delving deep into the complexities of love, loss, and the power of memory, The Eternal Memory invites audiences on an emotional journey that will touch their hearts and leave a lasting impact.
Starting today, viewers in New York can experience the magic of The Eternal Memory exclusively at the prestigious IFC Center. Furthermore, the film will also be available at two locations in the Los Angeles area: the Laemmle Monica Film Center in Santa Monica and the Laemmle Glendale. Recognizing the significance of Valentine’s Day, MTV Documentary Films has arranged a very special event on the evening of February 14th – a Drive-In screening at the West Wind Drive-In theater in the San Francisco Bay Area. This extraordinary event allows couples to come together and celebrate the timeless love story of Paulina and Augusto, the central figures in this unforgettable documentary.
The Eternal Memory follows the extraordinary journey of Augusto and Paulina, whose love has withstood the test of time for over two decades. However, their lives were forever changed when Augusto was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease eight years ago. Despite this monumental challenge, Augusto, a renowned cultural commentator and television presenter in Chile, endeavors to preserve his identity with the unwavering support of his beloved Paulina. As a famous actress and the former Chilean Minister of Culture, Paulina has always approached life with inventiveness, and she now channels her creativity into adapting to their new reality.
Facing Adversity with Love and Humor
Day by day, this extraordinary couple confronts the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s disease head-on, relying on their profound affection and shared sense of humor. Remarkably, their bond remains resolute, even as Augusto’s memories begin to fade. As the film delves deeper into their story, it becomes evident that Augusto Góngora played a pivotal role in documenting the Chilean people’s opposition to the oppressive military dictatorship of General Augusto Pinochet during his rule from 1973 to 1990. After Pinochet’s fall, Góngora dedicated himself to reviving Chile’s cultural heritage and reconnecting the country with its pre-Pinochet values.
The Eternal Memory is more than just a film about Alzheimer’s; it explores the power of collective and historical memory. Maite Alberdi, the talented director behind the movie, shared her perspective after the film received the coveted Oscar nomination. She revealed that the audience’s emotional engagement is a testament to the film’s impact. Alberdi’s first call of celebration was to Paulina Urrutia, who was moved to tears and expressed how Augusto, himself a filmmaker, would have been overjoyed with this recognition.
The Recognition It Deserves
The Eternal Memory marks Maite Alberdi’s second Oscar nomination following her acclaimed work on The Mole Agent. This poignant documentary premiered at the renowned Sundance Film Festival, where it received the top prize for international documentary. It has since garnered numerous accolades, including Best Non-Fiction Film from the New York Film Critics Online. Alberdi’s exceptional directorial skills were recognized at the Cinema Eye Honors, where she tied with fellow Oscar nominee Kaouther Ben Hania for Best Director. As a testament to her growing influence in the industry, Alberdi has been invited to participate in the Women’s Panel at the esteemed Santa Barbara International Film Festival on February 17th.
A Collaborative Effort
The Eternal Memory is a masterpiece brought to life not only by Maite Alberdi’s visionary direction but also through the collective efforts of an exceptional production team. Juan De Dios Larraín, Pablo Larraín, and Rocío Jadue join Alberdi as producers, ensuring the project’s artistic integrity and emotional resonance. The film boasts an impressive lineup of executive producers, including Marcela Santibáñez, Daniela Sandoval, Nicholas Hooper H., Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, Chandra Jessee, Rebecca Lichtenfeld, Sergio Karmy, Nina L. Diaz, Liza Burnett Fefferman, and Sheila Nevins. The collective talent and passion behind The Eternal Memory ensure a cinematic experience that will leave audiences forever touched.
The Eternal Memory is not just a documentary; it is an ode to profound love, resilience, and the indomitability of the human spirit. As viewers immerse themselves in Paulina and Augusto’s remarkable journey, they will be reminded of the enduring power of love and the precious memories that shape our lives. This heartfelt documentary is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the transformative power of storytelling and seeks a deeply emotional and unforgettable cinematic experience. Prepare to be captivated by The Eternal Memory and its unyielding exploration of love in the face of adversity.
Leave a Reply