Grab some popcorn! Your adventures in Peru will be even more fulfilling if you take the time to watch a film or two before you begin the trip. And these comedies, biopics, and documentaries aren’t just educational—they’re entertaining, too.
Any journey is significantly enriched through thoughtful preparation. This extends beyond merely outlining an itinerary, securing train tickets, and confirming accommodations. Allocating time to delve into the cultural nuances of your destination is paramount. Immerse yourself in the history, traditions, and contemporary realities of the place you intend to visit. Fortunately, the world of cinema offers a captivating portal for such exploration.
From profound documentaries unraveling the enigmatic past of Machu Picchu to compelling, award-winning films that shed light on the everyday struggles and triumphs of the Peruvian people, these cinematic experiences can ignite your enthusiasm and deepen your appreciation for your forthcoming adventure. Watching films beforehand allows you to arrive with a richer context and a more empathetic understanding. Let’s explore some films to watch before your trip!
## Ciudad de M (2000): A Glimpse into Modern Lima
**(Photo courtesy of Vanguard Cinema)**
For a genuine portrayal of Peruvian existence, one that transcends the well-trodden paths of Incan ruins and conventional tourist attractions, immerse yourself in *Ciudad de M* (City of M), a poignant work by director Luis Felipe Degregori. The film’s narrative centers around a young protagonist, known simply as “M,” as he navigates the complexities of seeking employment in the bustling metropolis of Lima.
The film masterfully exposes the scarcity of professional avenues available to many young Peruvians, coupled with the immense social pressure they face to achieve success. These themes reveal much about contemporary life within the Peruvian capital. It is particularly revealing when “M” contemplates crossing legal boundaries as a means of achieving financial stability.
The underlying narrative explores the prevailing sentiment among numerous Peruvians, who, disillusioned by the limitations within their own country, contemplate seeking opportunities and employment beyond its borders. The film thoughtfully examines the internal conflict between those who choose to emigrate and those who remain, emphasizing the powerful notion that staying in Peru and actively contributing to positive change is the only path forward toward a brighter future. This particular message resonates deeply, even today.
The film’s screenplay, expertly adapted from a book authored by Óscar Malca, garnered prestigious recognition from the National Cinematography Council upon its release. Complementing the film’s narrative depth is a vibrant soundtrack featuring a diverse array of local bands and performers. Viewing the film serves as an excellent avenue for discovering new and exciting music from talented Peruvian artists. It also gives insight into modern musical trends in Peru.
If you have a day to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Lima, explore the possibilities of designing a perfect day in the city. Discover the hidden gems and cultural highlights that await you in the Peruvian capital.
## La Boca del Lobo (1988): A Hard-Hitting Drama in the Andes
**(Photo courtesy of Inca Film / New People’s Cinema / Tornasol Films)**
*La Boca del Lobo* (The Mouth of the Wolf; 1988), a collaborative production between Spain and Peru, stands as a powerful and unflinching exploration of complex themes, including Peruvian law enforcement practices and the pervasive challenges of guerrilla warfare. Widely regarded as the definitive work of the highly respected director Francisco Lombardi, this film is a must-see before visiting Peru.
The gripping narrative is meticulously crafted, based on a chilling true story. The film is primarily set in Chuspi, a remote village nestled high within the Andes mountains. At the heart of the story is Vitin Luna, a soldier caught in an agonizing moral conflict. Chuspi finds itself designated as an “emergency zone” during a period of intense internal conflict between the established government and various independent militias. Lieutenant Iván Roca arrives in Chuspi, making accusations that implicate everyone in the village as dangerous terrorists, which leads to inhumane retaliatory actions. Luna is faced with an impossible moral dilemma: either uphold his military duty to his country or side with the vulnerable civilians of Chuspi. Beautifully filmed, emotionally charged, and intellectually stimulating, this film remains a Peruvian classic.
Are you planning a trip to the captivating Central Andes region? Consider exploring a curated list of recommended highlights that showcase the best that the region has to offer.
## The Motorcycle Diaries (2004): A Transformative Journey Through Latin America
**(Photo courtesy of Focus Features)**
Even if you have already experienced the captivating narrative of this acclaimed 2004 biopic, a re-watch is highly recommended before embarking on your Peruvian adventure. *Diarios de Motocicleta* (The Motorcycle Diaries) intricately chronicles the real-life journey of two young men – Ernesto “Che” Guevara, a medical student with burgeoning revolutionary ideals, and Alberto Granado – as they traverse the diverse landscapes of Latin America on two motorcycles. Although their journey begins in their native Argentina, Peru emerges as a particularly significant destination along their route. The segment of the film depicting the pair’s arrival at the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the magnificence of this historical site.
Another segment of significant interest for travelers to Peru portrays Guevara and Granado spending several weeks at a leper colony located in San Pablo, situated near Iquitos. The film depicts the distinct separation between the medical staff and the lepers, residing on opposite sides of a river, creating a separation that is both physically tangible and deeply symbolic. This stark contrast prompts the young Guevara to deeply question the prevailing social divide. This experience is essential to understanding his later revolutionary transformation: his experiences in Peru played a pivotal role in shaping his evolving philosophy.
## Asu Mare (2013): A Comedic Journey of Self-Discovery
**(Photo courtesy of Tondero Films)**
*Asu Mare* (2013) stands as a lighthearted and comedic adaptation of Carlos Alcántara’s popular stand-up routine. This adaptation achieved remarkable success, holding the title of the highest-grossing film in Peruvian cinema history for a time. Alcántara himself stars in the film version, joined by an ensemble cast of talented Peruvian actors and comedians. While certain cultural references might be subtly lost on some viewers, the underlying narrative of Alcántara’s life is universally relatable. The film portrays his journey growing up in poverty, lacking a father figure, and facing initial setbacks in his pursuit of a career as both a musician and an actor. However, along his journey, he discovers his innate talent for humor. This remarkable gift ultimately allows him to achieve fame, wealth, and romantic fulfillment, achievements that he largely attributes to his mother’s unwavering support and belief in him.
## The Ghosts of Machu Picchu (2010): Unveiling the Mysteries of the Inca Citadel
**(Photo courtesy of PBS)**
Why did the Incas ultimately make the difficult decision to abandon their remarkable city nestled amidst the clouds? This profound question serves as the central focus of *The Ghosts of Machu Picchu* (2010), an exceptional documentary film thoughtfully produced by PBS. Taking the time to watch this insightful film before embarking on your visit to this world-renowned destination is guaranteed to significantly enhance your overall experience. The documentary delves deep into the significant questions and lingering mysteries that surround the historical site. What factors led the Incas to select such a remote location as the ideal place to construct their city? How were they able to engineer and construct such an incredibly advanced aqueduct system? What other undiscovered wonders lie hidden within the surrounding landscape, beyond the well-trodden paths visited by countless tourists on a daily basis? Featuring a dedicated team of archaeologists as they carefully unearth ancient burial sites and previously unseen artifacts, *The Ghosts of Machu Picchu* is an essential viewing experience for travelers who desire more than just a superficial introduction to this historically significant place. Explore the profound history and captivating mysteries that lie beneath the surface of this remarkable Inca citadel.
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