The Heiresses

The Heiresses is a 2018 drama focusing on two wealthy women who have lived together for three decades but are now facing severe financial ruin. The plot is triggered when one of the women is sent to prison following an alleged fraud charge, forcing the other to confront their drastically changed circumstances. It is a quiet study of class, aging, and independence.

The Heiresses premiered at the 68th Berlin International Film Festival, where it won the Silver Bear for Best Actress for its lead performers. It was also Paraguay's official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Academy Awards. The film enjoyed a strong, critically acclaimed run on the global festival circuit.

The film was directed by Marcelo Martinessi, marking his feature film directorial debut. The movie brought significant international attention to Paraguayan cinema. Martinessi's intimate and sensitive direction earned him widespread critical acclaim.

The film is primarily spoken in Spanish and Guaraní, which is the official co-language of Paraguay. The use of Guaraní adds a layer of cultural authenticity to the characters' interactions and backgrounds. This bilingual element is a crucial part of the movie's distinct Paraguayan identity.