Colonia

Colonia

Year: 2016

Runtime: 110 min

Language: English

Director: Florian Gallenberger

DramaHistoryThrillerRomance

In 1973 Chile, amidst the turmoil of President Allende's downfall, Lena, a Lufthansa flight attendant, finds herself torn between love for her boyfriend Daniel and her own survival. As she navigates the brutal regime of General Pinochet, Lena must assume a new identity in the sinister Colonia Dignidad, where she'll confront the darkness head-on to rescue Daniel and reclaim her humanity.

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Timeline & Setting – Colonia (2016)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Colonia (2016). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1973

The movie is set during a tumultuous time in Chile, specifically in 1973, when the country experienced a military coup led by General Augusto Pinochet. It marks the beginning of a dark era of oppression and human rights violations, as the democratic government is overthrown, and political dissenters are persecuted. This period is characterized by political instability and violence, creating a stark contrast to the personal lives of the characters.

Location

Colonia Dignidad, Santiago, Andes Mountains

Colonia Dignidad is an isolated enclave in rural Chile, known for its reclusive community operating under a facade of charity. Located near the breathtaking Andes Mountains, it was formed by a former German soldier who evaded war crimes by establishing a cult-like organization. Santiago, the bustling capital of Chile, serves as the backdrop to the initial peaceful romance before the political turmoil unfolds.

🏞️ Nature 🏙️ City 🏰 Cult

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:46

Main Characters – Colonia (2016)
Meet the key characters of Colonia (2016), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Lena

Lena is a brave and adventurous flight attendant who finds herself embroiled in a perilous situation while trying to rescue her partner, Daniel. Her determination and resilience shine through as she navigates the dangers within Colonia Dignidad. Despite facing severe challenges, she remains committed to her love for Daniel.

✈️ Flight Attendant 💪 Resilience ❤️ Love

Daniel

Daniel is a passionate journalist and activist who becomes a target during the violent coup in Chile. His strong sense of justice drives him to expose the truth about the atrocities committed by the regime. Despite the brutality he faces, Daniel’s resourcefulness and love for Lena guide him in his quest for freedom.

📰 Journalist 🎗️ Activism 💔 Love

Paul Schäfer

Paul Schäfer is the manipulative and sinister leader of Colonia Dignidad, posing as a charitable pastor while enforcing a cult-like regime. His background as a former military figure and his cruel methods reveal the dark side of power and control. He embodies the themes of tyranny and oppression within the film.

👤 Cult Leader 🦹 Malice ⚔️ Authoritarianism

Gisela

Gisela serves as the strict administrator of the camp, tasked with maintaining order within the colony. Her tough demeanor masks her complicated relationship with Lena and the oppressive environment. She represents the enforcers of the cult, illustrating the internal conflict that arises in oppressive settings.

👩‍💼 Administrator 🙅‍♀️ Authority 🏚️ Oppression

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:46

Major Themes – Colonia (2016)
Explore the central themes of Colonia (2016), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕊️ Freedom

The theme of freedom is central to the story, highlighting the struggle against oppressive regimes. Lena and Daniel's desperate attempts to escape symbolize the yearning for liberation, both personally and politically. Their journey showcases the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tyranny.

🔒 Captivity

Captivity manifests not only in the physical sense within Colonia Dignidad but also psychologically as characters are ensnared by fear and manipulation. The film explores how cults exploit vulnerable individuals, stripping away their autonomy and identities. Lena's ordeal emphasizes the dire consequences of totalitarian control.

💔 Love and Sacrifice

The love story between Lena and Daniel serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of love. Their relationship is tested by extreme circumstances, leading to crucial decisions driven by affection and commitment. Love becomes a powerful motivator for survival and courage against overwhelming odds.

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:46

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