The Peruvian film industry is gearing up for the premiere of "Once Upon a Time in the Andes", a love story set in times of war.

The Peruvian film industry is eagerly preparing to receive the premiere of the movie "Once Upon a Time in the Andes", a feature film that has captivated international audiences at various film festivals around the world. Directed by the talented filmmaker Rómulo Sulca, this work immerses us in a touching love story between a Peruvian shepherdess and a Chilean soldier, set in the context of the 19th-century War of the Pacific. Based on the book "La guerra de la Cruz del Sur" by Alberto Chavarría Muñoz and an anti-war story by Julio Ramón Ribeyro, the film stands out for its valuable contribution to the preservation and dissemination of Andean culture. Filmed in the imposing mountains of Ayacucho, at over 4000 meters above sea level, and in the Chanka Quechua language, "Once Upon a Time in the Andes" pays tribute to the cultural and linguistic richness of the region. On May 30th and June 1st, the Peruvian audience will have the opportunity to enjoy two exclusive screenings of the movie during the East Lima Film Festival, before its release in commercial theaters in the second half of 2024. The original music created by Karin Zielinski and the impactful performances of Maribel Baldeón and Juan Cano in the leading roles have been praised by critics and viewers alike. Rómulo Sulca's debut in fiction with "Once Upon a Time in the Andes" has been a success, leading the film to be selected at prestigious film festivals around the world, such as the 18th Dallas International Film Festival in the United States and the 18th Native Spirit Film Festival in England. These international recognitions reflect the global impact that this transcendent love story has achieved. The film transports us to the final years of the Peruvian-Chilean conflict, presenting an emotional encounter between a wounded Chilean soldier and a kind Peruvian shepherdess. Despite the language barriers and cultural differences, love blossoms between these two characters, showing us the strength and universality of human feelings. "Once Upon a Time in the Andes" is a showcase of the talent and creativity of the Peruvian film industry, highlighting the fundamental role of women in the making of this work. In a context where female cinema is increasingly taking center stage, events like "Women Making Films" are vital to showcase and celebrate female talent in the industry. The movie invites us to reflect on the importance of empathy, solidarity, and love in times of conflict and divisions. Through the lens of Rómulo Sulca and the talented team behind "Once Upon a Time in the Andes", we witness how cinema can be a powerful tool to unite cultures, break down barriers, and convey universal messages of peace and tolerance. In summary, "Once Upon a Time in the Andes" is much more than a love story amidst war. It is a testimony to the ability of cinema to move us, inspire us, and connect us on a human level. This film promises to be a milestone in Peruvian cinematography and an invaluable contribution to the cultural heritage of the Andean region.