MTV Documentary Films has recently announced an exciting development for its critically acclaimed and Oscar-nominated documentary, “The Eternal Memory.” Starting today, the film will have a return theatrical engagement throughout the entire month of February. With its poignant portrayal of love and memory, Maite Alberdi’s film has been compared to narrative masterpieces like “Amour” and “Doctor Zhivago” by Deadline. The film will be exclusively screened at IFC Center in New York and Laemmle Monica Film Center in Santa Monica and Laemmle Glendale in the Los Angeles area. In addition, MTV Documentary Films has planned a special Valentine’s Day Drive-In event on February 14 at the West Wind Drive-In theater in the San Francisco Bay Area. Couples will have the unique opportunity to celebrate the profound love story of Paulina and Augusto, which Alberdi so magnificently captured in the film.
The heart of “The Eternal Memory” lies in the enduring love between Augusto and Paulina, who have been together for over two decades. However, their lives took an unexpected turn when Augusto was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease eight years ago. Despite this monumental challenge, Augusto, a well-known cultural commentator and television presenter in Chile, turns to his passion for building memory archives. Through his dedication and his beloved Paulina’s unwavering support, they strive to hold onto Augusto’s identity. Paulina, a renowned actress and former Chilean Minister of Culture, brings her ceaselessly inventive approach to engaging with her husband, ensuring their bond remains unbreakable. Their unwavering tenderness, affection, and shared sense of humor continue to flourish.
As the film unveils, Augusto Góngora holds immense significance in Chile’s history. During the military dictatorship of General Augusto Pinochet, which spanned from 1973 to 1990, Góngora played a pivotal role in documenting the people’s opposition. After Pinochet’s regime fell, Góngora became instrumental in restoring Chile’s cultural vitality by reconnecting it with its pre-Pinochet traditions and values. Tragically, Augusto Góngora passed away in May 2023 at the age of 71. Alberdi deftly emphasizes that “The Eternal Memory” encompasses not only the story of Alzheimer’s but also the power of collective and historical memory. It serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the indomitable force of love.
“The Eternal Memory” has received immense praise within the film industry. Alberdi’s masterful direction and storytelling garnered her second career Oscar nomination following her previous nomination for “The Mole Agent” in 2021. Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival last year, “The Eternal Memory” captivated audiences and won the prestigious top prize for international documentary. The film was also recognized as the Best Non-Fiction Film by the New York Film Critics Online and Alberdi herself was honored with the Best Director award at the Cinema Eye Honors. It is a poignant triumph that shares its spotlight with other critically acclaimed documentaries from MTV Documentary Films that have received Oscar nominations this year.
Maite Alberdi, the visionary director and producer of “The Eternal Memory,” will be featured in the upcoming Women’s Panel at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on February 17. Her profound exploration of memory, love, and the human experience has made an indelible impact on audiences and critics alike. The film was made possible through the collaborative efforts of producers Juan De Dios Larraín, Pablo Larraín, and Rocío Jadue. The remarkable executive production team includes Marcela Santibáñez, Daniela Sandoval, Nicholas Hooper H., Julie Goldman, Christopher Clements, Chandra Jessee, Rebecca Lichtenfeld, Sergio Karmy, Nina L. Diaz, Liza Burnett Fefferman, and Sheila Nevins.
As the world embarks on this emotional journey with Augusto and Paulina, “The Eternal Memory” serves as a poignant reminder of the power of love, resilience, and the enduring strength of memory. It is a testament to the human spirit that will touch the hearts and minds of audiences everywhere. Witness this extraordinary love story in theaters this February and be forever moved by its profound message.
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