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Portrait of My Father

View on the Pragda STREAM site

Juan Ignacio Fernández Hoppe's journey begins with a childhood tragedy: his father's mysterious death at a beach, surrounded by psychotropic medication. Despite the possibility of suicide, Juan's mother, a psychiatrist, decides against an autopsy. This pivotal moment shapes Juan's life, leaving him with unanswered questions as he grows up.

Thirty years later, armed with a box of his father's belongings, Juan embarks on a quest to unravel his father's identity. He discovers a multifaceted man: a unique musician and a compassionate music therapist for disabled teenagers.

Using a minimalist approach in his filmmaking, Juan interviews family members against a blank white backdrop, presenting personal items like artifacts. Each lead he pursues adds a layer to his father's story, from contacting former pupils and colleagues to uncovering deep, lasting impacts. Through this process, Juan's film evolves into a poignant exploration of loss, depression, and love.

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