Given that this is based on a recent, real life case, and the defendant has chosen to remain behind the titular pseudonym, it makes sense why Belén doesn’t focus entirely on her. We don’t get to know much about the defendant other than the case reveals. That being said, what was given is already infuriating enough. Filmmaker Dolores Fonzi, who also stars as her lawyer Soledad Deza, gathers a compelling defense, starting everything off with the terror and confusion Belén’s hospital check-up turns into her arrest. It strengthens the somewhat standard legal proceedings that is to follow, but nonetheless effectively highlights the multiple ways Argentina’s institutions have failed Belén. But what makes Belén so compelling is the way it also celebrates the movement formed around her case. Belén strikes at the core of the injustice made, with the same determination that secured her freedom, and the rights of every woman in the nation.
"In all aspects, this is a superior version of this type of story, from the quality of its performances, its refusal to bow to easy sentiment, the lack of an obvious antagonist, and also the lively repartee between all the main protagonists."
— David Jenkins
"“Belén” seems more interested in being a rallying cry than a character study. On that count, it will almost certainly succeed, and audiences around the world might soon be chanting “I am Belén” as loudly as Argentine women did in 2017."
— Christian Zilko
In the conservative northwestern region of Argentina, Julieta finds herself accused of infanticide after a medical emergency. With support from her attorney and women's rights advocates, she fights for justice in a landmark case that could change lives.
