Yo soy Alma

2022, Alma Cativa Sánchez, Argentina, Spanish,

Director: Mariana Manuela Bellone
Release Year: 2022

Synopsis:

"Yo soy Alma" (2022) is a deeply personal and thought-provoking documentary directed by Mariana Manuela Bellone. The film tells the remarkable story of Alma Cativa Sánchez, a transgender woman from Córdoba, Argentina. Alma's journey through life is one of profound transformation and self-acceptance, and her story is an inspiring testament to the power of embracing one's true identity. Alma’s life has spanned multiple phases and identities. From her childhood in a small town to her eventual recognition of her gender identity, 

 

Alma's journey has been filled with struggles, reinventions, and moments of liberation. Through "Yo soy Alma," Bellone offers a window into Alma's world, capturing her evolution as she transitions from a person forced to conform to societal norms into a woman who fully embraces her authentic self. The documentary traces her experiences using a blend of restored VHS footage, personal photographs, and Alma's own narration, which brings an intimate, raw quality to the story. The film explores Alma’s life in several stages, starting with her time in the police force, which she joined to avoid mandatory military service. It also reflects on her two marriages and the four children she raised before transitioning. In addition to these personal milestones, "Yo soy Alma" delves into Alma’s return to her childhood home after many years, where she revisits the past and confronts long-buried memories. Alma’s reflections, captured in the documentary, are laced with both vulnerability and empowerment. As she narrates the experiences of her life, she speaks candidly about the struggles of living in a body that did not align with her true self. Alma acknowledges the pain of not being able to express her identity openly during her earlier years. However, she also celebrates the joy and fulfillment she now experiences as she fully embodies her true gender. Alma’s story is not just her own—it resonates with anyone who has struggled to fit into societal expectations, regardless of gender identity.

 

The initial idea behind the documentary came from Bellone’s desire to portray the lives of individuals who had stories worth telling. When Bellone was searching for subjects, Alma reached out to her via email, sharing a detailed account of her life. This connection sparked a friendship between the two, and from there, the idea for "Yo soy Alma" evolved into a full-fledged documentary. Originally, Bellone planned to create a photo essay, but Alma’s story grew into something much larger and more compelling, leading to the creation of the film. The documentary is not only about Alma’s journey but also about the broader themes of identity, social roles, family relationships, and the desire to belong. Director Mariana Manuela Bellone expresses that the documentary transcends Alma’s personal experience. She believes the film offers a universal message: anyone who has ever struggled with societal expectations, relationships, or identity can find something to relate to in Alma’s story. Bellone adds that Alma’s resilience and refusal to conform to societal pressures make her an inspiring figure for all individuals, especially those grappling with their own struggles with identity.

 

The story of Alma’s life is a deeply emotional one. In the documentary, Alma recounts how she struggled with societal rejection and personal confusion as a child. From being called "too feminine" as a young boy to facing bullying and isolation, Alma’s early life was filled with challenges. Yet, as the documentary progresses, we witness Alma’s transformation into the confident and unapologetic woman she is today. Through her music, writing, and acting, Alma has found ways to express herself in ways that align with her true identity. A pivotal moment in Alma’s life came with the passage of the Argentine Gender Identity Law, which allowed people to change their gender on official documents without undergoing lengthy legal processes. Alma reflects on the relief and joy she felt when she was finally able to obtain a DNI (National Identity Document) that matched her true gender. For Alma, the law was more than a bureaucratic change; it symbolized her liberation from a lifetime of societal constraints.

 

The documentary also highlights Alma's current role as a civil servant in Argentina’s Ministry of Women, Gender, and Diversity. Here, she works on education initiatives that support the rights of transgender individuals. Alma regularly speaks about her personal experiences and offers insights into the struggles faced by transgender people in Argentina. In particular, she addresses the importance of supporting transgender children and young people in their journey of self-discovery, a cause that she is deeply passionate about. "Yo soy Alma" is a powerful reflection of the struggles that transgender people face in a society that often does not understand or accept them. Alma’s story is an inspiring reminder that no matter how difficult the journey, embracing one’s identity is worth the fight. The documentary also offers a critical perspective on how gender roles and societal expectations shape individuals’ lives, particularly those who do not conform to traditional norms. The film has been well received in the film festival circuit, winning five awards, including Best Film at the Asterisco Festival in 2022. It has been screened in various cinemas, including the Gaumont Cinema and the Cosmos Cinema in Buenos Aires, and it continues to be shown at cultural centers across the country. Bellone, who is also a photographer, captures the essence of Alma’s journey with a visual style that alternates between intimate, personal moments and broader reflections on society.

 

The use of restored VHS footage, combined with contemporary sequences, creates a visual juxtaposition that adds layers of depth to the narrative. Alma’s story in "Yo soy Alma" is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of embracing one’s true self. Through the lens of Alma's life, the documentary explores issues that are deeply relevant today, especially in a time when the rights of transgender individuals are under threat. Alma’s ability to share her story with the world is a powerful act of resistance, reminding us that the fight for gender equality and acceptance is ongoing. The film’s universal themes of self-identity, societal pressure, and personal growth make it an essential work for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of gender and identity in the modern world. Through "Yo soy Alma," viewers are given the opportunity to witness Alma’s remarkable journey, from her struggles as a child to her triumphs as an adult. It is a celebration of life, resilience, and the joy that comes from being true to oneself. Alma’s journey, captured in this deeply moving documentary, is a testament to the power of self-expression, the importance of community, and the ongoing fight for equality and understanding in a world that is still grappling with issues of gender and identity.

 

via: youtube

agenciapresentes.org
escribiendocine.com and cineargentinohoy.com.ar

Image credits: YouTube