Camila
Camila
The film “Camila” was produced in 1984 and directed by Maria Luisa Bemberg (1922-1955). Based on the true story of Camila OGorman, an Argentine woman who falls in love with a priest in 1840s Buenos Aires, this story dealt with the terrifying reign of Juan Manuel de Rosas. Camila is from an influential family and is betrothed to a Rosas loyalist. She is passionate and daring, just like her grandmother, and reads books that have been censored by the ruthless Rosas. When she falls in love with Father Ladislao, the two flee Buenos Aires and assume new identities as school teachers in a small village. During a party, a priest from Ladislaos old church recognizes Ladislao and turns them both in. They are both executed by firing squad even though Camila is pregnant.
The director, Maria Luisa Bemberg was a famous director known for attracting actors like Imanol Arias who were already established in their careers. Her most famous films are “Camila” (1984), “I, Worst of All” (1990), and “I Dont Want to Talk About It” (1990) (McClennon). Many of her films, including “Camila” had similar themes. She often criticized patriarchies and authoritarianism by telling stories of courageous women who dealt with historical events that had direct effects on women.
Camilas father, Aldolfo OGorman, represents a more intimate version of Rosas. He brings the terror of the government into her home, reminding her daily that she should do only as a respectful and loyal socialite woman is expected. He is obsessed with moral obligations as outlined by the Catholic Church, and also loyalty to family, church, and state. However, the familys loyalty is meant for the male head of the house. The first scenes of the film show Camila playing with kittens, then cuts to the servant who is carrying out her orders to drown the kittens. This scene immediately develops the cruelty the film will display within