Netflix's new film Los Dos Hemisferios de Lucca has captivated audiences worldwide, telling the heartfelt story of Bárbara Anderson and her quest to find experimental treatment for her son, Lucca, who lives with cerebral palsy. Released on January 31, 2025, the film quickly became the platform's most viewed content, with 305 million viewers tuning in on opening day.
The film is based on Anderson's real-life experiences chronicled both in her blog, "El viaje de Lucca," and the book of the same name. The poignant narrative follows her family's trip to India to access Cytotron, an experimental treatment developed by Dr. Rajah Vijay Kumar, aimed at improving Lucca's quality of life. Anderson identified the film's universal appeal as it ignited conversations among families with similar challenges across the globe. "I was surprised by the universality of the story. I thought it was just a Mexican story, but I received messages from people in Guadalajara, Seville, Norway, and even Egypt who identify with the plot," Anderson shared with Infobae.
Following the fervor surrounding the film, the Sociedad Mexicana de Neurología Pediátrica issued statements expressing caution about the Cytotron treatment. The organization noted, "Until now, there are no clinical trials demonstrating devices like Cytotron meet the safety and efficacy standards for improving neuronal connectivity short-term." Acknowledging the complexity of cerebral palsy, they emphasized the necessity for multidisciplinary treatment approaches grounded in evidence.
Developed by Dr. Rajah Vijay Kumar, Cytotron employs electromagnetic radiation with the aim of influencing cellular regeneration. Despite its exploration for brain injuries and potential applications against neurodegenerative diseases and certain cancers, medical experts remain skeptical. The absence of concrete clinical studies supporting its effectiveness prompted the Mexican Pediatric Neurology Society to highlight the lack of approval from international regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EMA. Concerns were raised as to how families facing severe neurological conditions reacted to the possibilities created by the film.
Bárbara Anderson acknowledged the concerns raised by the medical community, stating, "I find it extremely important and responsible to issue these kinds of alerts. Indeed, the treatment is experimental and there are no approved protocols for its use in the country. I never recommend, invite, or promote it. I only tell the story of taking experimental treatment, which, for my son, worked." This clarity demonstrates her intent not to endorse the treatment but rather share her family's experience.
While Los Dos Hemisferios de Lucca continues to spark dialogue about diverse abilities and the challenges faced by families with similar experiences, the film's broader goal is to advocate for improved public policies promoting true inclusion. Without adequate support, many families remain isolated, struggling to find appropriate solutions for their loved ones.
Through the lens of one family's odyssey, the film sheds light on the realities of cerebral palsy and imperfections within existing healthcare systems. This is amplified by the fact Anderson's story resonates with many who are deserving of recognition and support as they navigate their unique journeys.
Overall, the film not only captivates the hearts of its viewers but serves as a catalyst for important discourse surrounding disability rights, the ethical boundaries of experimental treatments and medical advancements. One can view Los Dos Hemisferios de Lucca, now available on Netflix, and witness the vibrant storytelling rooted deeply within the complex fabric of advocacy and perseverance.
Anderson’s experiences, woven through the narrative, remind viewers of their responsibility to advocate not only for their loved ones but for the systemic changes required to uplift families like hers around the world.