Ian de la Rosa’s debut film, *Iván & Hadoum*, is a heartfelt exploration of evolving masculinity. Set in southern Spain’s agricultural heart, specifically around Níjar, it reveals a landscape that appears beautiful from afar but is shaped by industrial farming. This setting is more than just a backdrop; it plays a crucial role in the characters’ lives. Here, desire, labor, and self-worth come with conditions, reflecting the sacrifices behind Europe’s food supply.
The story revolves around Iván, portrayed by Silver Chicón. He works as a forklift operator in a warehouse owned by Manuel, a family friend. Iván is diligent and tired, feeling the weight of expectations. He dreams of a promotion that might change everything—a leap that could allow him to secure a home for his family. The pressure he faces is palpable, with a worn mother, a desperate sister, and kids that fill their cramped space with both love and suffocation. This promotion becomes a necessity, shaping his identity and his family’s future.
Everything changes when Hadoum, played by Herminia Loh, starts working alongside Iván. Their connection grows from nostalgia into something bolder. Hadoum’s fierce spirit and sense of freedom challenge the norms of their town, where conformity is often prized. The film beautifully depicts Iván as a trans man, showing his journey not as a mere plot device but as a lens through which societal acceptance is tested. Acceptance in their community is fragile and conditional, often withdrawn in moments of conflict.
The film explores how Iván’s identity is measured against the expectations of those around him. His sister invokes his role as a man to highlight responsibility, while his male friends grapple with their own insecurities when faced with Iván’s emerging independence. The workplace, too, reflects this. Manuel offers Iván a chance, then shifts the rules, threatening everyone’s stability. Hadoum, unafraid to confront injustice, pushes Iván to make choices that question his moral integrity and personal identity.
The cinematography by Beatriz Sastre captures these emotional depths superbly. Light becomes a vital element, lending warmth to the characters without masking their real struggles. The performances by Chicón and Loh are particularly striking. Iván grapples with his desire to be seen as both virtuous and valuable, while Hadoum embodies a mix of carefree joy and uncompromising resilience. She not only supports Iván’s journey but actively challenges him to confront difficult truths.
*Iván & Hadoum* establishes Ian de la Rosa as a filmmaker with a keen eye for emotional nuance. The film tackles personal stories while addressing broader societal issues. It raises questions about what communities demand from individuals and the complexities of love when it intertwines with duty and acceptance. In a world where approval often feels conditional, this narrative resonates deeply, touching on themes of identity, belonging, and the human cost of ambition.
Recent statistics indicate that representation in media remains a crucial conversation. According to GLAAD, only 5.6% of characters in film are LGBTQ+ (2022 report), highlighting the significance of films like *Iván & Hadoum*, which bring important narratives to the forefront. In social media conversations, viewers have praised the film for its authentic portrayal of a trans character, helping shift public perceptions and enhancing visibility in cinema.
