'Belén,' a film directed by and starring Dolores Fonzi, has been chosen to represent Argentina in the Best International Film category at the 2026 Oscars and the Goya Awards. This selection brings a story centered on social justice and women's rights to a global platform.
The film recounts the deeply affecting story of Julieta, a young woman from Tucumán who faces accusations of infanticide following a miscarriage. Fonzi portrays Soledad Deza, the lawyer who champions Julieta's case, exposing flaws within the judicial system and advocating for reproductive rights in Argentina. Released in Argentina on September 18, 2025, 'Belén' has received acclaim for its examination of social justice and women's rights, and it also served as the closing feature for the AFI Latin American Film Festival.
The narrative is rooted in a true case from 2014 that profoundly impacted Argentina and became a symbol for the pro-choice and feminist movements. The real-life case involved a young woman accused of murder after a miscarriage she was unaware she was experiencing. Her struggle, and the subsequent legal battle led by lawyer Soledad Deza, highlighted systemic injustices and fueled a national conversation.
Fonzi's direction and performance, alongside the compelling narrative, have resonated widely. The film's screenplay, co-written by Fonzi and Laura Paredes, is based on Ana Correa's book "Somos Belén," which documented the real-life case. The film's selection for the Oscars and Goyas underscores its artistic merit and potent social commentary, marking a significant step in bringing nuanced Argentine stories to international attention.