A Different Kind of Coming-of-Age
Most movies about childhood friends reuniting follow a very predictable path, but Esteros feels different because of its restraint. It doesn't rely on big, dramatic monologues. Instead, it uses a dual-timeline structure to show us exactly how Matías and Jerónimo's bond was formed and why it was broken.
Set against the backdrop of the Argentine wetlands, the film is visually arresting. The 'Esteros' aren't just a pretty location; they represent a place of freedom for the boys that contrasts sharply with the more rigid, socially-policed lives they lead in the city as adults.
What makes this film worth your time is its refusal to be a 'tragedy.' So much queer cinema from the last few decades focuses exclusively on the pain of the closet or the violence of homophobia. While Esteros doesn't ignore those realities, it prioritizes the connection between its characters. It’s a story about the persistence of love and the possibility of a second chance, which feels much more enriching than the alternative.
If you're okay with subtitles and a slower pace, this is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling. It’s the kind of movie that lingers in your head for a few days after the credits roll, making you think about your own 'what if' moments.
