"Mother and Daughter, a cinematic legacy that enriches Peruvian cinema."

In a cinematic landscape where female presence has historically been limited, the artistic bond between mother and daughter in the world of film becomes an exceptional and worthy celebration. María Esther Palant and her daughter Silvia Kantor are two figures who, although born in Argentina, have significantly contributed to the development of cinema in Peru, creating a legacy that transcends generations. Their story not only reflects a passion for art but also a commitment to making historical and artistic figures visible through the cinematic medium. María Esther Palant, born in Buenos Aires in 1932, trained in sculpture and painting, which undoubtedly influenced her visual and narrative approach in film. Throughout her career, Palant has dedicated much of her work to portraying the lives and contributions of Peruvian visual artists, such as Enrique Camino Brent and José Sabogal, helping to disseminate the country's cultural identity. Her focus on artistic themes has positioned her as a pioneer in the representation of art within Peruvian cinema. A milestone in her career was the founding of Grupo Chaski in 1982, a collective that sought to innovate and give voice to Peruvian stories from an authentic and committed perspective. Through this platform, Palant directed "Gregorio," an emblematic film that has become a reference point in national cinema. Her legacy is a testament to the importance of telling stories that connect with the social and cultural reality of Peru, themes that remain relevant today. On her part, Silvia Kantor, born in 1953, has inherited her mother's creative spirit, becoming a prolific filmmaker from a young age. Her involvement in productions by Grupo Chaski, such as "Juliana," highlights her ability to carry forward projects that continue her mother’s legacy while exploring new narrative paths. Kantor has also shown an interest in poetry and art, evident in her short film "Para vivir mañana," which pays tribute to the poet Carlos Germán Belli. The recognition of both filmmakers materializes in the 28th edition of the Lima PUCP Film Festival, where several of their short films have been restored in a section called "A Shared Passion." This tribute not only highlights their individual contributions but also celebrates the emotional and artistic connection between mother and daughter, an element that enriches the narrative of contemporary Peruvian cinema. In the festival's program, two documentaries by María Esther Palant will be screened: "Cota y los niños," which pays tribute to the educator and artist Carlota Carvallo, and "Ricardo Palma," an intimate portrait of the well-known Peruvian author. These works reflect Palant's interest in telling stories that highlight the cultural richness of Peru while honoring figures who have left a mark on the country’s history. Silvia Kantor, for her part, will present three short films covering a variety of themes. "Reflejos en el vidrio" explores the life of a worker in a blown glass factory, while "Sintonía" focuses on the creative concerns of a man seeking to write about a painter. Finally, "Némesis" tackles a dark yet fascinating theme: the persecution of a woman during the Inquisition in Lima, a reminder of the historical impact of oppression on women. This tribute to María Esther Palant and Silvia Kantor is a fundamental step in recognizing the work of women in Peruvian cinema and encouraging new generations to continue exploring art from diverse perspectives. At a time when the film industry faces criticism for its focus on simplistic entertainment, the work of these filmmakers invites reflection and commitment to deeper and more meaningful narratives. The restoration and screening of their short films at the Lima Festival is not only an act of recognition but also an opportunity for the audience to rediscover the value of these works in a context that often forgets the importance of stories that connect us with our cultural identity. At the end of the day, cinema is a bridge between generations and a means to share passions that, as in this case, are passed from mother to daughter, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Peruvian art.