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Deep Dive: Unforgivable (2020)

Film Lens

Unforgivable
Unforgivable is a 2020 short documentary directed by Marlén Viñayo, focusing on a hitman for the 18th Street gang serving time in an evangelical prison in El Salvador. The film addresses the complex themes of crime, punishment, and identity, particularly highlighting the hitman's struggle with his sexual orientation in a society that deems being gay as an unforgivable sin. The documentary presents the harsh realities of life in prison while also exploring the intersection of gang culture and religious beliefs. The hitman's personal narrative unfolds against the backdrop of systemic violence and societal rejection, providing a stark look at the consequences of his actions and identity within the confines of the prison environment.

Why Watch

  • Meet Geovanny, a hitman confronting his identity.
  • See the realities of life in an evangelical Salvadoran prison.
  • Find out why being gay is seen as an unforgivable sin.

Did You Know

Unforgivable is the first Salvadoran film to qualify for an Academy Awards nomination.
The film had its world premiere at Hot Docs in May 2020.
In October 2020, it was shortlisted by the International Documentary Association as one of the best short films of the year.

Perfect For

LGBTQ+ rightsGang cultureSalvadoran cinema