‘Where the Silence Is Heard’ Co-Directors Gabriela Pena and Picho García Confront Inherited Trauma Across Three Generations in Chile

Copenhagen, Denmark – The documentary Where the Silence Is Heard, directed by Gabriela Pena and Picho García, explores the painful legacy of silence and trauma within a family. The film is set to premiere on March 17 as part of the Next:Wave program at the 23rd edition of the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival, also known as CPH:DOX.

The documentary follows Pena, who returns to her family’s abandoned house in Chile, a place steeped in memories of exile and loss. The narrative delves into how love, fear, and silence are inherited across three generations. As Pena reflects on her grandparents’ tenderness juxtaposed with her mother’s emotional distance, she grapples with the complexities of familial love shaped by trauma.

A Journey of Renovation and Discovery

Where the Silence Is Heard chronicles Pena’s efforts to renovate her family’s house while piecing together their history, which has been marked by the dictatorship of General Augusto Pinochet, exile, and decades of silence. The film has been described as “an aesthetically beautiful story about inherited trauma,” emphasizing its exploration of memories, identity, and the essence of love in the face of fear and absence.

Pena and García, who are partners in both life and work, directed and edited the film alongside producers Gabriela Sandoval and Efthymia Zymvragaki. García also serves as the sales contact for the project.

The Evolution of the Film’s Concept

The idea for the documentary evolved over several years. Pena recalls discovering a handwritten notebook by her grandfather during a trip to Chile when she was 18 or 19. This notebook, which she later digitized for family and friends, presented a masculine narrative that lacked emotional depth. It was a story of absence and waiting, which resonated deeply with her.

Years later, after completing her university studies, Pena returned to Chile to live with her grandparents. This experience became the foundation for the film, as she began recording her journey and collaborating with García on the reconstruction of the old house.

Uncovering Personal and Familial Connections

Pena did not initially grasp the full significance of her documentary. She described the filmmaking process as a gradual revelation, particularly regarding her relationship with her mother. During her pregnancy, she recognized that the old house symbolized her desire to reconnect with her mother, who had experienced unresolved internal pain.

García’s support throughout this journey has been instrumental. He noted their shared experiences as filmmakers and partners, stating that their collaboration has deepened their understanding of family issues. He emphasized the importance of patience and love in their relationship, particularly as they confront inherited wounds from exile and dictatorship.

Balancing Personal and Political Narratives

The documentary addresses political and historical contexts but prioritizes intimate family dynamics. García expressed a desire to avoid politicizing personal experiences, stating that the vulnerabilities within their family were of greater importance. Pena acknowledged the challenge of balancing political themes with personal narratives, hoping the film conveys a political message without being overtly explicit.

The couple’s different backgrounds contribute to their creative process. García’s family remained in Chile during the dictatorship, offering a contrasting perspective to Pena’s experiences. They both bring unique personalities to the filmmaking process, with García describing Pena as deeper and more ethereal, while he considers himself more practical and concrete.

Confronting Generational Trauma

Pena articulated her long-standing desire to confront generational trauma, especially now that she is raising a child with García. She expressed concern about preventing the continuation of this trauma into future generations. Reflecting on her relationship with her mother, she acknowledged that while it may never be perfect, she has gained a deeper understanding of her mother’s emotional distance, recognizing it as a result of past experiences rather than personal inadequacies.

As the premiere approaches, Pena’s mother will finally see Where the Silence Is Heard in Copenhagen. The couple has also organized a meet-up with a group of Chilean exiles, which Pena anticipates will be an emotional experience for her mother.

The film serves as a poignant exploration of inherited trauma, love, and the complexities of familial relationships, set against the backdrop of Chile’s tumultuous history.

As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com.

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Published on 2026-03-15 14:33:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk