Roberto: Animated Short Film Tackles Body Shaming

The animated short film "Roberto," directed by Spanish filmmaker Carmen Córdoba, is now available for free streaming on RaiPlay. The story follows Roberto, a curious boy with thick eyelashes and a gift for drawing, who is in love with his shy and insecure neighbor. A clothesline connects their bedroom windows, serving as their only means of communication. The film explores the drama of feeling uncomfortable in one's own body through the eyes of childhood. It has already won awards at numerous international festivals. The protagonist struggles with body image from a young age, feeling ugly and chubby despite Roberto's constant declarations of love. As she grows into adulthood, her discomfort persists. Roberto remains in love and tries to help her break free from her insecurities. The film critiques societal beauty standards that glorify perfection and thinness, pressuring both women and men to constantly monitor their bodies. It invites reflection on the damage caused by body shaming and the harmful effects of aesthetic models promoted by media and society.