Today we’d like to introduce you to Belén Gallardo.
Hi Belén, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Asunción, Paraguay, where my passion for storytelling and visual arts began at an early age. I first worked as a model and actress, which introduced me to the world of film and television and helped me understand the creative process from in front of the camera. Over time, I became increasingly interested in what happens behind the scenes, especially directing, writing, and editing.
That curiosity led me to create my own independent projects. My latest short film, Just Drink Your Milk, is my debut as a writer, director, producer, and editor. Making this film taught me that even with limited resources, it is possible to tell meaningful stories through dedication, creativity, and perseverance. Today, I continue developing new projects while exploring my voice as a filmmaker and sharing my work with audiences around the world.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of my biggest struggles has been believing in myself, especially when stepping into new roles as a writer, director, producer, and editor. There were times when I questioned whether I was capable of telling the stories I wanted to tell.
Living in a different country and working in a language that is not my native one also pushed me out of my comfort zone. However, every challenge has helped me grow, and I’ve learned that confidence comes from continuing to create, even when you have doubts.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a filmmaker, I’m interested in telling honest and emotionally driven stories. Just Drink Your Milk was born from my own experience as a mother. The love, care, and emotions that inspired this film come from something deeply personal, and that is what makes this story so meaningful to me.
Although it is rooted in my own experience, I hope many mothers—and families in general—will recognize a part of themselves in it. I believe the most personal stories often become the most universal because they are told with honesty and genuine emotion.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I started this film with my iPhone and a trípod, and my daughter has been my greatest inspiration.
Just Drink Your Milk is a deeply personal story born from the unconditional love of a mother. It follows a mother writing a letter to her little daughter while trying to preserve the small moments she never wants to forget. Alongside them is the nonna, whose quiet presence reminds us of the beauty of aging and the precious connection between generations.
Through everyday details—a glance, a pacifier, a bottle of milk, the sound of cicadas, a passing train, and the streets of Italy—the film reflects on how ordinary moments become our most treasured memories.
One of the most meaningful words in the film is “Che memby,” which means “my child” in Guaraní. The film is told primarily in Guaraní because it reminds me of my roots. As a Paraguayan living abroad and raising my Italian daughter, it was my way of passing on a part of my identity and culture to her.
Although the film was shot in Italy, its heart belongs to Paraguay. I’m incredibly grateful that film festivals have already reached out about the short, and I’m excited to share it with audiences around the world.
I hope many mothers—and anyone who has experienced unconditional love—will see a part of themselves in this story.
Che memby.
Time passes. Love remains.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://belengallardo.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belengallardoofficial
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MBelenGallardo1/
- Twitter: https://x.com/MBelenGallardo
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MBelenGallardo
- Other: https://vimeo.com/1205774772
