Directed by Olivia Peregrino, Dear Nancy is a powerful documentary that chronicles the life and legacy of Nancy Cárdenas, a pioneering figure in Mexico’s LGBTQ+ rights movement. Brave, provocative, and ahead of her time, Nancy Cárdenas broke down the closet doors of a community that was invisible in 1970s Mexico, paving the way for future generations in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
The film uses a rich tapestry of archival materials, personal letters, and in-depth interviews with family, friends, and colleagues to paint an intimate portrait of Cárdenas. It explores her groundbreaking activism, especially through theatre, and her relentless advocacy for sexual diversity in a conservative society. Dear Nancy not only highlights her public achievements but also delves into her struggles and the societal challenges she faced as an openly lesbian woman in a repressive era.
Through its thoughtful storytelling and historical context, Dear Nancy serves as both a tribute and a call to action, urging viewers to reflect on the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of visibility. Olivia Peregrino’s documentary stands as an essential film for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history, Latin American activism, and the transformative power of art and courage.
