Claiming the past: Venezuelan historical films and public politics

Abstract

Since 2000, multiple historical films and documentaries have been released that reference different stages of Venezuelan history. This trend reflects a society persistently exploring its past, mirrored in part by the policies of the Venezuelan government toward its cultural institutions. By analyzing historical films Taita Boves (2010) and Zamora (2009), this article explores some of the ideological currents that traverse Venezuelan society, raising questions about the role of film in social and political life. Ultimately, this essay contributes to the debate around the constitution of a national historical consciousness.