The Innocents () is a 2025 coming-of-age drama film co-written and directed by Germán Tejada. Based on the novel of the same name by Oswaldo Reynoso, which stars Diego Cruchaga Ponce, Fabián Calle, José Miguel Chuman, Grecia Pino, and José Masías. It is a Mexican-Peruvian co-production.
The film had its world premiere at the 2025 Guadalajara International Film Festival on June 8, where it won the Best Genre Film.
Synopsis Cara de Ángel is a sensitive teenager in search of his identity, trying to understand what it means to be a man in a world shaped by hostile masculinity. To earn a place in the neighborhood pack and prove his manhood, he joins a robbery; they plan to break into the house of a man they want revenge on. Driven by sexual desire, he explores his connection with Gabriela, a girl from the neighborhood he believes he’s in love with, and Jhonny, the lead singer of a punk band he deeply admires. His impulsive, hormone-fueled choices lead him into betrayal and mark the end of his innocence.
Cast Diego Cruchaga Ponce de León Fabián Calle José Miguel Chuman Grecia Pino José Masías Beto Benites Joshua Salinas Josué Subauste Christian Calderón Lucía Becerra Andrea Berrocal
Production Principal photography began on March 29, 2022, in Lima, Peru.
Release The Innocents had its world premiere on June 8, 2025 as part of the official selection at the 40th Guadalajara International Film Festival, where it competed for the Maguey Award.
Accolades AwardDateCategoryRecipientResult Guadalajara International Film Festival 15 June 2025Maguey AwardThe InnocentsBest Genre Film Lima Film Festival16 September 2025Peruvian Competition - Best FilmPeruvian Competition - Best DirectorGermán Tejeda
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