The 21st Gainesville Latino Film Festival is proud to close the festival with the powerful Dear Gentlemen (Estimados Señores), the directorial debut of Colombian multi-talented artist Patricia Castañeda. This historical drama sheds light on a vital but often overlooked chapter of Latin American history – the women’s suffrage movement in Colombia.
Set in 1954, the film follows trailblazing activist Esmeralda Arboleda, portrayed by Julieth Restrepo, as she and a determined group of women fight against the political establishment to win the right to vote. Colombia was the last country in Latin America to grant women suffrage, and the film captures the courage and persistence it took to overcome eight congressional debates and generations of systemic resistance.
Following the screening, a Q&A session features actresses, Barbara Perea and Paula Castaño. In addition, special guest Marcela Venegas, actress and cultural advocate, will speak in person about the film’s contemporary relevance.
This is a FREE event with registration.
