The Memory of Butterflies () is a 2025 documentary film written, co-produced and directed by Tatiana Fuentes Sadowski in her directorial debut. The film documents the lost stories of Omarino and Aredomi emerging from the shadows of the rubber trade. It is a journey through Amazonian archives that connects research, speculation and the filmmaker’s own family history.
The film was selected in Forum at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, where it had first screening on 16 February 2025.
Summary
In a single photograph, Omarino and Aredomi come to life, their histories fading away with the rubber boom. This image prompts a deep dive into my ancestral connections to the rubber industry. Their stories weave together in The Memory of Butterflies, a personal journey blending reality with dreams, history with imagination. This transcendent voyage explores the interrelationships of power, memory, responsibility, and legacy, all set within the remnants of days gone by.
Production
The film was made with the help of funds received from The Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual, Portugal, DAFO – Peru Cinema Institute, Ford Foundation, and Tambo Films.
Release
The Memory of Butterflies had its world premiere in the Forum section of the 75th Berlin International Film Festival on 16 February 2025.
It competed in Latin American Documentary at the 29th Lima Film Festival for Trophy Spondylus in August 2025.
It will be presented in 'Mission Life - 2025' section of the 56th International Film Festival of India in November 2025.
Accolades
Award Date Category Recipient Result Berlin International Film Festival23 February 2025 Berlinale Documentary Film Award Special Mention Tatiana Fuentes Sadowski FIPRESCI PrizeThe Memory of Butterflies Lima Film Festival 16 September 2025 Ministry of Culture Jury Award for Best Peruvian FilmAPRECI Awards6 February 2026Best Peruvian Feature FilmBest DirectorTatiana Fuentes SadowskiBest DocumentaryThe Memory of Butterflies
References
External links
The Memory of Butterflies at Berlinale