Talk&Boom
What comes to mind about Colombian culture? Coffee, music, literature… but what about cinema? Chances are, you are missing a rich film tradition that represents the country’s history through the lens of cinema as a voice of protest in times of social unrest and adds a touch of dirty realism. And that representation of struggle and protest precisely characterises what almost all renowned Colombian cinema is all about.
Just to name an example, similar to ‘This is England,’ the Colombian top-published book adapted to the big screen ‘El olvido que seremos’ (The Forgetfulness We Will Be) explores deep issues within Colombian society, much like its UK counterpart does for British audiences. Both films reveal the ruthless realities and violence the working class encounters against significant historical, political, and cultural events.
However, Colombia’s film industry also includes comedies, documentaries, and history that will captivate you with magical realism, beautiful landscapes, and funny yet unforgettable stories about Colombian people—their unique aesthetic will deeply move and transform you through the power of provocative imagery.
Ready to explore these top 12 Colombian films you definitely don’t want to miss?
Top 12 Colombian Films You Must Watch
‘El abrazo de la serpiente’ (2015)
This Oscar-nominated masterpiece, directed by Ciro Guerra, is an impressive visual narrative where Amazonian First People nations, their relationship with nature, and the early XXth-century Amazonian rubber cycle take centre stage. In this black-and-white movie, Guerra invites us to explore the themes of connection, survival, and the profound ties between humans and the earth.
You can watch this movie on Amazon Prime.
‘La estrategia del caracol’ (1993)
Based on a true story directed by Sergio Cabrera, this film satirises a group of tenants fighting against a greedy landlord. This tale of resilience and ingenious resistance, where social critique meets witty humour, cleverly shows Bogotan inequalities on the big screen.
A quick Google search can provide several links to watch this movie.
‘Los viajes del viento’ (2009)
Another gem from Ciro Guerra, this film follows the life of Ignacio Carrillo, a musician who travels the northern part of the country with his accordion, playing the traditional genre of ‘vallenato’. This visual and musical odyssey celebrates traditional Colombian Caribbean culture, music, and the quest for identity in this warm, desert land.
You can watch this movie for free at the RTVCPlay (a Colombian television platform) here[1].
‘Pájaros de verano’ (2018)
Ciro Guerra and Cristina Gallego co-created this film, which offers a glimpse into the Wayúu culture’s involvement in the 1970s marijuana trafficking in the north part of Colombia, known as ‘La Guajira.’
This movie is available to watch for free at RTVCPlay.
‘El olvido que seremos’ (2019)
Adapted from one of Colombia’s top-published books, this film explores profound societal issues, drawing parallels to the struggles in 1960s Medellin. The author, Hector Abad Faciolince, reflects on memory, loss, and the enduring battle of Colombians during the XXth century.
Although regional differences might apply, you can watch ‘El olvido que seremos’ on Netflix.
‘La vendedora de rosas’ (1998)
Directed by Víctor Gaviria, this film presents the realities children face on the streets of Medellín with raw authenticity by following the story of young Mónica, a kid whose life was involved in crime, drugs, and poverty during the 1990s.
You can watch this movie on RTVCPlay.
‘Perro come perro’ (2008)
Directed by Carlos Moreno, this portrayal of corruption and violence within the Colombian criminal underworld will captivate you. Brace yourself for a fierce and raw peak into a dog-eat-dog world where loyalty is scarce, and survival often means crossing the line and putting your own life at risk.
‘Perro come perro’ is available on RTVCPlay.
‘Rodrigo D: No futuro’ (1990)
Another successful film directed by Victor Gaviria, this story looks at the lives of young punks and musicians in Medellín’s violent 1990s. It portrays the youth’s rebellious spirit and nihilism against a society that has long forgotten them, pushing the boundaries of desperation and dreams shattered by the complex reality of violence and inequality.
This movie is available on RTCVPlay for free.
‘Los colores de la montaña’ (2010)
Directed by Carlos César Arbeláez, this film portrays the rural conflict in Colombia through the eyes of Manuel, a young boy whose passion for football and painting confronts the realities of war. This beautiful visual narrative blends the interrupted youthful dreams with the truths of a community deeply mutilated by violence.
You can watch ‘Los colores de la montaña’ on RTCVPlay.
‘La Gente de la Universal’ (1993)
Directed by Felipe Aljure, this Colombian-Spanish movie is an adventure of a Bogotá detective agency mired in corruption. Fredy and his team will walk through the city’s underworld, where the lines between right and wrong are blurred, revealing the harsh reality of pursuing justice in a society on the edge.
This movie can be found through a quick Google search.
‘Cóndores no entierran todos los días’ (1984)
Based on Alvares Gardeazabal’s novel of the same name, this movie will transport you to the 1940s and 1950s Colombia, an era marked by violent political conflict known as ‘La Violencia.’ Follow the story of León María Lozano, a conservative politician who slowly rises to power during this time of extreme ideological divides, and it slowly decade into madness that will bring its people a never-ending war.
You can watch this movie on Amazon Prime and RTCVPlay.
‘Colombia Magia Salvaje’
This documentary will present Colombia’s natural beauty through the lens of its nature and wildlife. A captivating journey from the Andes to the Amazon, where you will observe the diverse country’s incredible landscapes while underlying the importance of preserving these natural wonders and rich biodiversity.
What Makes Colombian Films so Unique?
Dirty realism and Cinéma Verité‘s approach to socio-economic, cultural, and political phenomena make this country’s cinema industry unique. Cinéma Vérité, which originated in France in the 1960s, presents life in its authentic form, with its ups and downs.
On the other hand, dirty realism, initially proposed by Bill Bufford in 1983, introduces us to the untold stories of overlooked communities. It tells us the everyday life of Colombia’s working and rural class through elements such as class, consumerism, violence, and opioids, but also with a touch of hope, resilience, and perseverance.
Both film movements have had a profound impact on Colombian filmmakers. Making movies that portray the dirty realism of Colombia like ‘La vendedora de rosas’ or ‘Los colores de la montaña,’ while also showing us the real life of Colombian people in films like ‘La estrategia del caracol,’ or ‘Los viajes del viento.’
[1] Altough many movies here are available to watch for free on RTCVPlay, only a few of them have subtitles. So it’s time to practice your Spanish listening skills!
