‘Behind the Rain’ Uncovers Childhood Sexual Abuse in Striking Black and White
Sofía, a recent psychology graduate from Valparaíso, Chile, returns to her hometown of Valdivia, where she confronts the haunting memories of her childhood following the discovery of a young girl’s body. This unsettling event compels her to delve into a painful past that affects not only her but also her entire community.
Director Valeria Sarmiento’s film Behind the Rain premiered at the Crystal Globe main competition during the 60th edition of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. The film juxtaposes stunning black-and-white imagery with the heavy subject of childhood sexual abuse. The screenplay, developed in collaboration with the late Omar Saavedra Santis, is based on an original concept by Sarmiento. Acácio de Almeida served as the director of photography, while Galut Alarcón took on the editing responsibilities.
Cast and Collaborators
The film features a talented cast, including Paula Prado, Cristián Arriagada, Aline Kuppenheim, Shlomit Baytelman, Chamila Rodríguez, Daniel Muñoz, Julio Milostich, Aimar Alarcón Rodríguez, and Clara Vargas Arellano. Rodríguez also serves as the film’s producer. Sarmiento and Rodríguez have collaborated since Secrets in 2008 and expressed their hopes for the societal discussions that the film could ignite.
Sarmiento noted that the inspiration for the film stemmed from the pervasive issue of child abuse in society, which often remains unspoken.
Artistic Choices and Visual Style
Sarmiento made a deliberate choice to film in black and white, with color introduced only at the end. This decision reflects her upbringing, as she grew up watching films devoid of color. She explained that her mother advised her to “look behind the rain” to see the full spectrum of colors and experiences, a theme that resonates throughout the film.
Rodríguez shared her personal connection to the story, revealing that she had experienced similar trauma in her childhood, which she kept hidden until she was 40. This personal history fueled her desire to participate in the film both as an actress and a producer. She views art, including film, as a means to transform painful experiences into something positive.
Casting and Production Experience
Finding the right actress for the lead role was a challenge, as many actresses were tied to theater commitments. Sarmiento felt an immediate connection with Paula Prado, believing she was the ideal choice to convey the film’s themes. The production process was described as harmonious, with Rodríguez praising Sarmiento’s calm demeanor as a director, which fostered a trusting environment on set.
Both Sarmiento and Rodríguez expressed their hopes that Behind the Rain would encourage open discussions about child abuse, emphasizing the importance of giving a voice to those who have suffered in silence. They aim to shed light on a topic that is often hidden and stigmatized, allowing for a broader societal conversation.
As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com.
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Published on 2026-07-11 12:20:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk