Esteemed Chilean filmmaker Ignacio Agüero was celebrated with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 25th DOC Buenos Aires Film Festival. The festival, which ran from August 19-24, 2025, recognized Agüero for his significant contributions to Latin American documentary cinema and his dedication to exploring historical memory.
Agüero accepted the award with his characteristic humility, calling the recognition "a stimulus halfway through the journey." The festival also featured a retrospective of his work, including his 2025 film "Cartas a mis padres muertos," a personal reflection intertwined with Chile's recent history. His 2008 film, "El diario de Agustín," which critically examines the role of media during the Pinochet dictatorship and the complicity of the newspaper "El Mercurio," was also highlighted.
The 25th DOC Buenos Aires presented a diverse international documentary program. Agüero's award highlights the impact of his films, which consistently illuminate historical truths and influence contemporary documentary filmmaking. His work has garnered international acclaim, with retrospectives held in Argentina, France, and Mexico, underscoring the universal appeal of his explorations into memory and societal impact.
Beyond his filmmaking, Agüero remains actively involved in nurturing emerging talent. He teaches at the University of Chile and participates in film workshops for children, fostering a new generation's appreciation for documentary cinema. His influence extends beyond his cinematic output, establishing him as a pivotal figure in the evolution of Latin American storytelling.