On January 31, 2025, Netflix premiered the highly anticipated film Los Dos Hemisferios de Lucca, directed by Mariana Chenillo and based on the poignant book by journalist Bárbara Anderson. This emotional tale, featuring notable performances by Bárbara Mori and Juan Pablo Medina, dives deep yet heartwarmingly through the challenges faced by Bárbara, the mother of Lucca—a boy with severe cerebral palsy.
The narrative revolves around Bárbara's unyielding determination to seek the best treatment for her son. Confronted with barriers from the conventional medical system, she embarks on an ambitious trip to India aiming for experimental therapy capable of reshaping Lucca's neurological pathways. The family’s pursuit is not merely about medical assistance; it is steeped in unconditional love, resilience, and the desire for inclusion, making it both relatable and inspiring.
Anderson, who penned her family’s trials and triumphs, expressed her sentiments during the film's special screening, stating, “Mirarse a uno mismo en una película es muy difícil de explicar, lloré al vernos 'ser' otra vez. Esta vez la ficción catapultó nuestra vida a otro nivel.” Her heartfelt reflection emphasizes how deeply personal and transformative the storytelling process became.
The emotional weight of the film is underlined by its central theme—the unconditional love of a mother—and the lengths she will go to for her child. Mori, who plays the titular role, noted how significant it was for her to portray such resilience. She remarked, “Debido al amor infinito de una madre, Bárbara nunca perdió la fe... su historia inspira muchísimo.” This sentiment encapsulates the overarching message of hope infused within the narrative.
The casting of Julian Tello, only 10 years old, to portray Lucca highlights the film's authenticity. His portrayal is poignant, as he conveys emotions without words, driven by gestures and expressions learned from extensive preparation. Remarkably, Tello himself has cerebral palsy and is determined to promote awareness and inclusion for children with disabilities, as he mentioned, “Quiero transmitir un mensaje: todo lo que nos propongamos, las personas con discapacidad lo podemos lograr.”
Filming sequences took the crew to India, involving authentic cultural representations, particularly during scenes at local temples. Chenillo ensured the story kept its real essence by having genuine rituals conducted by local gurus throughout the shoots. This thoughtful approach resulted not only in captivating visuals but also enriched the narrative framework around Lucca’s experiences with different cultural practices aimed at healing.
Through her words, Anderson brightens the often gloomy perceptions surrounding special needs, stating, “Van a encontrar una manera distinta de mirar la discapacidad... en realidad no es esa persona, sino que es todo un entorno.” Acknowledging this broader societal view is pivotal for creating conversations about inclusion and access for individuals with disabilities.
To commemorate the film's launch, the artistic installation titled 'Conexiones' opened, reflecting the message of neuroplasticity—the ability of the brain to forge new pathways. A product of collaborative design by Artsynonym + Estúdio QUE, this installation visually celebrates the film's themes, remaining available for public viewing until February 9 at the Artz Pedregal shopping center.
Anderson hopes the film will serve as a beacon of knowledge and encouragement, especially for families facing similar challenges. “Nunca dejé de trabajar, nunca, ni siquiera en India,” she said, illustrating the relentless human spirit camouflaged beneath the struggles familial life often brings.
Overall, Los Dos Hemisferios de Lucca is more than just entertainment; it is a clarion call for awareness about cerebral palsy, urging viewers to expand their empathy and awareness about the lives of those who navigate the complex world of disabilities daily. The film currently beckons audiences on Netflix, encouraging viewers to engage with its impactful narrative and reflect on notions of familial love, perseverance, and the potential for change.