Bhopal: Cine’ Classic featured a screening of the 1985 Argentine drama The Official Story, which was highly appreciated by the audience. The film exposes the horrors of Argentina’s Dirty War (1976–1983), a period when thousands were abducted and murdered under military dictatorship.
Directed by Luis Puenzo, The Official Story became the first Argentine film to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1986.
The film follows Alicia (Norma Aleandro), a history teacher in Buenos Aires, who leads a comfortable life with her successful businessman husband, Roberto (Héctor Alterio), and their adopted daughter, Gaby. Alicia’s world is shaken when her old friend Ana (Chunchuna Villafañe) returns after years and reveals that she was abducted and tortured by the military.
Doubts creep into Alicia’s mind—could Gaby be the child of a murdered political prisoner? As she uncovers the truth, she begins to suspect that Roberto may have been complicit in the adoption. This revelation strains their relationship, leading to a painful turning point where Alicia is forced to choose between her comfortable life and her conscience.
The Official Story is a profound examination of truth, memory, and moral responsibility. It highlights how authoritarian regimes manipulate history for their own benefit. Alicia, as a history teacher, symbolizes those who remain unaware of the cruelty of power. But as she learns the truth, her transformation mirrors the larger societal awakening in Argentina.
Luis Puenzo’s direction brings an intense sense of realism, allowing the audience to deeply experience Alicia’s emotional journey. The film also emphasizes the role of women and motherhood. Norma Aleandro’s powerful performance received widespread acclaim, earning her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival.
The film’s Oscar win brought global attention to human rights violations in Argentina. Even today, The Official Story remains a landmark of Latin American cinema, depicting the weight of history, moral accountability, and the courage to confront harsh truths.
The 112-minute film was screened free of charge at the Conference Hall of Mahila Chetna Manch, Shivaji Nagar, drawing a large audience.
