Somos Ecos

**Review of "Somos Ecos" by a French Film Critic**

The directorial debut of Julián Díaz Velosa, "Somos Ecos," show me a different perspective of colombian conflict, had the opportunity to watch the film as programmer, I feel this movie has made a bold and deeply human cinematic achievement. The film follows the intertwined lives of three young individuals amidst conflict: a punk enthusiast, an infiltrated guerrilla fighter, and a recruited peasant girl. Through themes of friendship, betrayal, and love amidst the chaos of battle, Díaz Velosa explores how these characters are drawn into becoming both victims and perpetrators.

The film takes a daring approach by addressing the Colombian armed conflict from a human perspective, avoiding ideological extremes. This approach results in a work that not only captivates but also provokes deep reflection on the nature of war and our own humanity.

Díaz Velosa skillfully immerses us in the transformation of these youths trapped in a cycle of violence. As they seek reconciliation and second chances, the characters struggle to change their destinies and be seen differently in a judgmental world. The team behind "Somos Ecos" has successfully captured the complexity of contemporary Colombian society in all its nuances, creating a film that both provokes thought and deeply moves the audience.

The film plunges viewers into the heart of the Colombian jungle, where the discord of armed conflict disrupts the dreams of three young souls. Directed and written by Julián Díaz Velosa, this cinematic gem, paints a visceral portrait of a reluctant punker, an infiltrated guerrilla, and a recruited peasant girl. Struggling against the currents of violence and loss, their stories unfold in a symphony of hope amid the chaos, revealing the profound impact of the armed conflict on the diverse tapestry of human experience. Brace yourself for a riveting journey that transcends the screen and leaves an indelible mark on your soul.

The film immerses viewers into the heart of the Colombian jungle, where the brutal armed conflict reshapes the destinies of three young souls. The film, unfolds the gripping narrative of a reluctant punker, an infiltrated guerrilla, and a recruited peasant girl. As their dreams are forcibly altered, they find themselves unwilling participants in a conflict they wish to avoid.

The director skillfully captures the intricacies of the armed conflict, shedding light on its impact, particularly on the lives of young individuals. In the face of insecurity, violence, and the loss of loved ones, the characters navigate a challenging journey. Yet, amidst the turmoil, "Somos Ecos" also explores themes of hope emerging from the diversity of human experience, offering a poignant reflection on the complexities inherent in such conflicts.

Somos Ecos is a raw, unflinching portrait of Colombia's armed conflict, seen through the eyes of youth trapped in its chaos. The film's power lies in its unromanticized realism, exposing the agonizing choices forced upon a generation desperate to reject violence yet bound by circumstance. Director Julián Diaz crafts a narrative steeped in urgency, focusing on the emotional turmoil of teenagers navigating loyalty, survival, and identity amidst war. The characters' struggles whether resisting recruitment, protecting loved ones, or clinging to fleeting innocence are rendered with visceral authenticity. Star cinematography and understated performances amplify the tension, while the script avoids didacticism, trusting viewers to grapple with the moral gray areas. Though pacing wavers in quieter moments, the film's heart its indictment of war's theft of youth resonates deeply. By centering humanity over ideology, "Somos Ecos" becomes a haunting elegy for those caught in cycles of conflict they never chose. A necessary, emotionally charged reflection on resilience and the cost of peace.

Somos Ecos - was directed by one of Colombia's greatest newest directors: Julian Diaz Velosa. I had the pleasure of meeting him at the Cartagena International Film Festival. Days later, I had the chance to see his film in that amazing and effervescent film festival.

Even though the film was screened in theatres I chose to see it far from the glamour of the festival, amongst the real people of Cartagena. Who better to know if what I was about to watch resounded than them. The gritty made-up theatre, set in the middle of a street; amongst the working class, served perfectly, almost as a metaphor to what I was about to watch.

The film is a transformative and exhilarating "coming of age" war movie but unlike most movies of that genre, Diaz leads on a path of wonder, of questions, about who and what is right when young people are the ones confronted with death ultimately, yes, all in the name of certain beliefs. Colombia had for many years a brutal armed conflict, resulting in the death of a large part of their youth.

Diaz, wants us to reflect on those choices we have to make in order to achieve peace through the process of war - and the price a country has to pay for that.

Beautifully shot in the jungles of Colombia and city, with a great performances by a talented cast and a solid script, I reiterate that Diaz is on his way to of becoming a beacon of Colombian cinema.