Chilean trans actress-activist Paula Dinamarca, known for her role in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard Grand Prix winner, “The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo,” has been announced as part of the cast for the upcoming film “A Decorous Woman.” The film was highly anticipated and showcased at the 2025 Malaga Festival Fund & Co-Production event (MAFF).
Dinamarca previously worked with “Flamingo” director Diego Céspedes in the acclaimed short film “The Melting Creatures,” produced by Rodrigo Díaz of Parina Films. Díaz, who is currently presenting a new project titled “Don’t Let Me Die Alone,” praised Dinamarca for her exceptional talent and emotional depth in her performances.
In “A Decorous Woman,” Dinamarca will star alongside lead actress Catalina Saavedra, known for her role in the Sundance Grand Jury prizewinner, “The Maid.” The film, directed by Chilean-Spanish filmmaker Natalia Luque, explores the life of a hairdresser named Marta María (Saavedra) as she navigates the challenges of an empty nest.
Set in present-day downtown Santiago, the story follows Marta María as she finds comfort and connection through her work, immersing herself in the lives of her clients. Dinamarca plays the role of Lola, a numerologist and client of Marta María, who has a special gift for storytelling and connecting with others.
The co-production of “A Decorous Woman” involves Parina Films, Tomsa Films from France, and Madre Content from the U.S. The film is scheduled to begin filming in April next year, with a targeted release date in the first semester of 2027.
Director Natalia Luque praised Dinamarca for her ability to convey deep emotions through her performances, making her a perfect fit for the role of Lola in the film. The project received funding from the Chilean Audiovisual Fund 2024, with support from Madre Content, a Latinx company founded by filmmaker Francisca Alegría.
In addition to her work on “A Decorous Woman,” Luque has a history of exploring nuanced characters and underrepresented spaces in her films. Her previous short film, “So They Say,” has been recognized at various film festivals.
Meanwhile, the upcoming project “Don’t Let Me Die Alone,” directed by Francisco Rodríguez Teare of Axolotls Cine, tells the story of Mamani, a delivery boy in Chile who finds purpose and belonging after surviving a suicide attempt. The film is a co-production with Michigan Films and Mimbre Films, with support from Parina Films.
Overall, Dinamarca’s involvement in these projects highlights her talent and versatility as an actress, bringing depth and authenticity to each character she portrays on screen.
