Eva Doesn't Sleep

Eva Doesn't Sleep is a 2015 Argentine drama film that delves into the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the embalmed body of Eva Perón, Argentina's beloved First Lady, after her untimely death in 1952. The film, directed by Pablo Agüera de Mata, not only pays homage to the legendary Eva but also explores the complex politics that followed her passing. In 1952, Eva Perón, affectionately known as "Evita," succumbed to cancer at the age of thirty-three, leaving behind a grieving Juan Perón, the then-president of Argentina. The nation was gripped by sorrow as the embalmed body of Eva was displayed to the public, giving millions of Argentines a chance to pay their respects to their cherished First Lady. Renowned embalmer, Félix Moreno, was entrusted with the delicate task of preserving Eva's body. His meticulous craftsmanship was exceptional, allowing Eva to remain a poignant presence, even in death. The film showcases the remarkable work of Moreno, who meticulously preserved Eva's body to ensure that she would remain intact and presentable for countless fans seeking to catch a glimpse of the enigmatic First Lady. As Juan Perón was forced into exile three years after Eva's death, Argentina was plunged into chaos with the military junta taking control of the country. In a desperate bid to break the hold that Eva's symbolic power still exerted over the Argentine people, the junta saw her body as a potential threat. In a bold move, they decided to confiscate her embalmed corpse, fearing that as long as Eva's body remained in Argentina, it would be an ongoing reminder of the Perón regime, which they sought to erase from the nation's collective memory. In the film, Pablo Agüera de Mata expertly weaves the narrative around the embalmed body of Eva, emphasizing the tension and fear emanating from both the military junta and the Perón loyalists. While the junta sought to eliminate any remaining vestiges of the Perón era, the Perón loyalists and the public remained fiercely devoted to Eva's memory. Her embalmed body became an unlikely catalyst for resistance against the repressive regime. In a chilling twist, the junta made it a crime to utter the name of Eva Perón, effectively silencing the Argentine people and rendering her body a silent, yet powerful symbol of rebellion. Eva Doesn't Sleep masterfully captures the intricate web of politics that defined Argentina in the aftermath of Evita's passing, while at the same time celebrating the indomitable spirit of Argentina's people. The movie also offers a unique perspective on history, revealing the often-overlooked stories of ordinary people who risked their lives to honor Eva's memory even in the face of extreme danger. Against the backdrop of this turmoil, the film paints a poignant portrait of a nation torn apart by politics, yet united in its love and reverence for the enigmatic Eva Perón. Eva Doesn't Sleep stands as a testament to the enduring power of Eva Perón's legacy and the unrelenting desire of her people to preserve her memory amidst an oppressive regime. The film serves as a fitting tribute to the Argentine people's resilience, unwavering loyalty to their cherished First Lady, and the haunting reminder that sometimes, even in death, a single figure can embody the hopes and dreams of an entire nation.