Canadian Premiere

Chile—a long-standing stronghold of Catholic conservatism—is changing. Among the many who welcome these progressive changes is Pedro, an adorable shy gay man living a less-than-swinging single life. On the eve of the election of the country’s first female president, an optimistic Pedro agrees to host a backyard barbeque at his home; he plans the food, while his “straight,” egotistical, buffoon of a best friend, Manuel, takes care of the guest list. Manuel ups the excitement by promising to set Pedro up with a blind date for the party, but when the special guest arrives not only is she a woman, but Manuel has grossly misinformed her that Pedro might agree to be her sperm donor. While the confused guest’s biological clock ticks, Pedro and Manuel comically hash out years of pent-up frustration and sexual tension. More surprises arrive when Loli, a college freshman that Manuel is trying to seduce, shows up and the hard-core drinking and partying begins. What starts as a painfully awkward house party becomes a beautifully rendered no holds barred battle between masculine and feminine gender roles, a celebration of sexuality and a hopeful look towards the future.

Dancing a thin line between comical and uncomfortable, Muñeca is a testament to how the Chilean film community has proven that it is possible to make gay cinema interesting and humourous while steering clear of clichés and predictable plot formulas.

WINNER
Best Film, 2008 FESTIVAL de CINE de VIÑA DEL MAR

Closing Gala Party

Sun | Aug 23 | 9:00 pm
Celebrities Nightclub - 1022 Davie Street

“We’re over and over,” DJ Buzy B is “Crimson”, Maxwell Maxwell is “Clover.” Close the Festival by dancing cheek to cheek. Graciously hosted by Symone.
Free admission