Directed by Carlos Valverde and Rodrigo Hiriarte, ‘House with a Flag’ (Casa con bandera) is a short documentary film that observes the resilience and fortitude of a Chilean community as they challenge inequality within social housing. Set in Temuco, central Chile, the film captures the common bond and will-power of the local residents as they fight against the system by seizing government land to construct residential accommodation. The docu-short is produced in the Spanish language with English subtitles. A heart-warming tale of tenacity and resistance.
Throughout the 25-minute documentary we hear from a group of local residents who have found themselves in a catch-22 – ineligible for immediate social housing, due to financial and personal circumstances, and out of reach to afford private sector accommodation. The community take matters into their own hands by occupying publicly owned land to assemble make-shift homes to survive. Despite political hostility, the people remain steadfast and impenetrable with their agenda.
Carlos Valverde and Rodrigo Hiriarte have created a fascinating film that doesn’t shy away from showcasing the destitute and hardship. The courage and strength of the subjects involved is certain to provide inspirational viewing. Technically, the film is crafted with reasonable cinematography and sound throughout. ‘House with a Flag’ is a David and Goliath story that deserves to be noticed.
