A dance of secrets: Exploring Bolivia’s vibrant youth in ’99 Secrets’

A new voice in Bolivian cinema

Selected for this year’s Locarno Open Doors Producers Lab, “99 Secrets” marks the debut feature of acclaimed Bolivian producer Alvaro Manzano Zambrana. Known for his work as a production manager on Werner Herzog’s “Salt and Fire” and as a producer on Vinko Tomicic’s “The Dog Thief”, Manzano is now stepping into the spotlight with a story that promises to captivate audiences worldwide.

A quinceañera like no other

Set against the backdrop of a lavish quinceañera party, “99 Secrets” tells the tale of a 14-year-old amateur pickpocket who sneaks into the celebration to share a dance with young Ana. What begins as a night of festivity quickly turns into a tense standoff as revolution erupts outside, trapping the partygoers inside the dance hall for three days.

During this time, the guests’ true natures are revealed, and the bond between Ana and Jonathan deepens. They become each other’s refuge, savoring their final moments together before the harsh reality of their world inevitably pulls them apart.

A microcosm of Bolivian society

Manzano describes the film as a microcosm of Bolivian society, using the quinceañera party as a temporary container for the characters’ conflicts and secrets. “The party is an analogy for life,” he explains, “but it also serves as a lens through which we can explore Bolivia’s complex political and social landscape from the perspective of two teenagers from different social and economic backgrounds.”

The setting of the party hall, known as a cholet, is crucial to the story. The Neo-Andean architecture of the building not only inspires the film’s aesthetic but also serves as a visual metaphor for the vibrant and surreal structures that make up contemporary Bolivia.

A city of contrasts

Producer Camila Molina Wiethüchter highlights the significance of the film’s setting in El Alto, a city that has yet to be fully explored in Bolivian cinema. Built primarily by the rural migration of Aymara indigenous peoples, El Alto is now famous for its Neo-Andean Architecture—a unique and colorful expression of Aymara heritage within the urban landscape of Bolivia.

El Alto is the second most populous city in Bolivia and a commercial hub where social movements continue to shape the city’s identity. Molina describes the film as a love story set in a cholet in El Alto, following the experiences of Ana and Jonathan as they navigate a world of loneliness and social and political polarization. The story aims to inspire hope and the possibility that small, meaningful connections can give life a sense of purpose.

A visual and cultural feast

“99 Secrets” is not just a film; it is a visual and cultural feast that promises to transport audiences into the heart of Bolivia. The film’s aesthetic is deeply influenced by the Neo-Andean architecture of the cholet, which serves as a vibrant and surreal backdrop for the story. This architectural style is not just a visual phenomenon but also a cultural movement, representing a unique expression of Aymara heritage.

The film’s setting in El Alto adds another layer of depth to the story. This city, with its rich textures, symbols, and mysticism, provides a unique backdrop for the film’s exploration of social and political themes. The struggles of social movements in El Alto are woven into the fabric of the story, adding a layer of authenticity and relevance to the film.

A story of hope and connection

At its core, “99 Secrets” is a story of hope and connection. It is a tale of two teenagers from different social and economic backgrounds who find solace in each other during a time of crisis. Their bond serves as a reminder that even in the most challenging circumstances, small, meaningful connections can give life a sense of purpose.

The film’s exploration of Bolivia’s complex political and social landscape is both honest and playful, offering a fresh perspective on the country’s struggles and triumphs. By focusing on the experiences of two teenagers, the film provides a relatable and engaging entry point for audiences to explore these themes.

Looking ahead

Currently in development, “99 Secrets” is set to begin shooting in May 2026. As the film continues to take shape, it promises to be a significant addition to the landscape of Bolivian cinema. With its unique setting, compelling characters, and rich cultural context, “99 Secrets” is poised to captivate audiences and offer a fresh perspective on Bolivia’s vibrant and complex society.

For those eager to get a glimpse of this upcoming film, you can watch the trailer for 99 Secrets and stay tuned for more updates as the film progresses.

By weaving together personal reflections, in-depth analysis, and distinctive comments, this article aims to provide cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts with a rich and engaging exploration of “99 Secrets”. The film’s unique setting, compelling characters, and rich cultural context make it a must-watch for anyone interested in the vibrant and complex society of Bolivia.