Valentin

In 1969, Valentín, an eight-year-old boy, finds himself under the care of his grandmother following his parents' divorce. He is marked by his cross-eyed gaze and thick black-rimmed glasses, navigating a complicated family dynamic.

Valentín is captivated by the ongoing space race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, harboring dreams of becoming an astronaut. His curiosity and aspirations reflect his desire to escape his troubled home life.

Valentín's mother, a Jewish woman, has been driven away from their family home by his father. Although he longs for her, his recollections of her existence are but fleeting images, underscoring his emotional scars.

Valentín's father, characterized by his playboy lifestyle and anti-Semitic tendencies, occasionally visits their home. During these visits, he disregards his son's emotional needs, highlighting the family's underlying tensions.

To cope with his circumstances, Valentín develops a close bond with his uncle Chiche, who engages him in adult conversations. These discussions help Valentín navigate his precocious wisdom and the realities of adulthood.

At a mass, a priest reflects on the legacy of Che Guevara and the sacrifices made for ideals. Valentín's observation that the priest's words change nothing illustrates his understanding of the world's complexities.

A pivotal day arises when Valentín spends time with Leticia, his father's girlfriend. Their outing allows Valentín to share intimate family details, leading Leticia to reconsider her relationship with his father.

After reflecting on her time with Valentín, Leticia decides to end her relationship with Valentín's father. This decision provokes an angry response from Valentín's father, further complicating Valentín's life.

Valentín becomes increasingly concerned about his grandmother's health, as she adamantly refuses to seek medical attention. His worry for her well-being drives him to take action on her behalf.

Determined to help, Valentín devises a plan to encourage his grandmother to visit Dr. Galaburri. This visit leads to positive changes in her health and lifestyle, demonstrating Valentín's growing maturity.

Tragedy unfolds when Valentín's grandmother passes away following a hospital visit. This loss forces Valentín to find a new living arrangement with a school friend, further deepening his feelings of isolation.

Valentín receives a shirt delivered by a compassionate man, which brings forth conversations about his mother's prolonged absence. This moment allows Valentín to begin understanding the complexities hidden within his family.

In a heartwarming turn of events, Valentín orchestrates a blind date between Leticia and Rufo, his piano teacher. Their meal together sparks a new connection, hinting at the healing relationships in Valentín's life.

As the film draws to a close, Valentín shares his newfound aspiration to become a writer. This revelation symbolizes his personal growth and the resilience he has developed throughout his tumultuous childhood.

The story concludes on a hopeful note, as Leticia and Rufo find happiness together. Valentín's journey not only shapes his perspective but also holds the promise of better days ahead.