About The Grown-Ups

Explore:

• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music
• Soundtrack

About

The Grown-Ups is a 2016 documentary that explores the lives of a group of adults with Down Syndrome living in Chile. Directed by Maite Alberti, the film provides an intimate and poignant look at the challenges and triumphs these individuals face as they navigate love, work, and friendships.

The documentary follows the daily routines and aspirations of four middle-aged adults with Down Syndrome, including Anita, Rita, Andrés, and Ricardo. The film showcases their desire for independence and purpose, highlighting their efforts to find meaningful employment and establish romantic relationships.

With a blend of humor and sensitivity, The Grown-Ups challenges societal expectations and offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities and unique perspectives of individuals with Down Syndrome.

Making / Production

The Grown-Ups was filmed over a period of several months, capturing the daily lives of Anita, Rita, Andrés, and Ricardo. Director Maite Alberti and her crew worked closely with the subjects, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration to authentically portray their experiences.

The documentary features a combination of observational footage and interviews, providing a well-rounded view of the characters and their personal journeys. Alberti's sensitive approach to storytelling allows the audience to connect with the protagonists on a deeper level, eliciting empathy and understanding.

Actors

• Anita - Played herself, showcasing her determination to become a schoolteacher despite societal limitations.
• Rita - Played herself, highlighting her pursuit of a fulfilling life and a loving relationship.
• Andrés - Played himself, demonstrating his passion for acting and his dreams of becoming a professional dancer.
• Ricardo - Played himself, showcasing his resilience and ambition to establish independence through employment.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The Grown-Ups won the Best Documentary Award at the Santiago International Film Festival in 2016.
• Director Maite Alberti was inspired to make the film after working as a special education teacher and witnessing the challenges faced by her students with Down Syndrome.
• Anita, one of the protagonists, later appeared in a Chilean TV series called "Down the Rabbit Hole," which further promoted inclusivity and visibility of individuals with Down Syndrome.

Awards

The Grown-Ups won the Best Documentary Award at the Santiago International Film Festival in 2016.

Quotes

• "We are grown-ups, but nobody treats us that way." - Anita
• "Love and friendship matter even more to us." - Rita
• "I want to prove that I can do anything." - Andrés

Music

The documentary features a minimalistic and emotive soundtrack composed by Javier Acevedo. The music enhances the emotional impact of the film, providing a subtle backdrop to the characters' journeys.

Soundtrack

• "Reflections" - Javier Acevedo
• "Journey of the Heart" - Javier Acevedo
• "Whispered Dreams" - Javier Acevedo
• "Finding Hope" - Javier Acevedo