Landless Children

Landless Children (2026)



Los niños sin tierra

7.0 2026 97 min Chile, France

Director: René Ballesteros

Documentary
Two Chileans raised in Europe set out on a transformative quest. Daniel was mistakenly declared dead the moment he was born, while Juan is haunted by visions of an injured woman. Each one is driven to uncover the truth of his roots, locate a mother, and piece together the fragments of his past. *Landless Children* beckons viewers on a voyage—one that traverses both inner landscapes and rugged terrain—into the heart of a land long overlooked.

More About This Film

Landless Children is a French-Chilean documentary directed by René Ballesteros. It follows two Chileans who were adopted in Europe and later begin searching for the origins that were separated from them by adoption, time, and incomplete family histories.

Daniel was declared dead at birth, while Juan dreams of a wounded woman. Their journeys become both physical and emotional searches for a mother and for fragments of identities that were displaced across continents. The documentary uses their stories to reflect on adoption, memory, belonging, and the lasting effects of separation.

  • René Ballesteros directed the film.
  • The documentary was produced by Camille Laemlé, Nicole Bonilla, and Johanne Schatz.
  • Production companies include Les Films d'Ici, La Madre, and La Ballesta.
  • The film is a France and Chile co-production and runs approximately 95 minutes.
  • Ballesteros previously directed The Dreams of the Castle and his documentary work has received recognition at major Latin American festivals.

Where to Watch

Landless Children is an international documentary release whose streaming availability depends on festival and distributor licensing.