The Roar of the Butterflies (2023): Season 1, Episode 1 - Episode #1.1 - full transcript
This story is inspired by real events.
All characters and events depicted
have been created for dramatic purposes.
Any similarity with reality
is purely coincidental.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
NOVEMBER 25, 1960
Something's happening.
No.
Patria!
No. Let go of me!
Let go of me.
Help!
The CRY of the BUTTERFLIES
SPAIN - JULY 1999
Yes, I think this is it, yeah.
Okay, great.
Thank you.
All right.
Bye.
Watch your hands.
Very good. Very good.
Remember that you dance not only
with your body, but with your heart.
Itziar, hands.
Arantxa, excuse me,
but there's someone here to see you.
Who?
Pilar Macías, the writer.
Watch the class for me, please.
- Girls, let's go to the barre.
- Hello.
-Arantxa, it's a pleasure to meet you.
-Ah.
Likewise.
Sorry, I didn't know you were coming.
No. Forgive me for showing up like this.
I left you a few phone messages,
but since I hadn't heard from you,
in my hurry, I thought,
"I'll just introduce myself in person."
And it wasn't such a long trip.
-A trip? From where?
-From Zaragoza.
Well, from Zaragoza to Madrid,
and then by train from Madrid.
And what did you want to see me for?
So, I'm writing a book.
I'm pretty far along, but I didn't want
to finish without talking to you first.
Oh, a book.
And what is the book about?
It's about Minerva Mirabal.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
OCTOBER 1949
Someone's at the door. There's a letter.
I'll go. I'm leaving for school.
Are you coming for dinner?
Your sister will be there with Jaime.
Of course.
I wouldn't miss your rice for the world.
-Good luck, Mine.
-Thanks.
♪ And how wretched is the fate
That wrongs me ♪
♪ And how absurd is the reason… ♪
KEROSENE - OIL - CORN
-Good morning, Mario.
-Good morning, madam.
Hello.
I can't believe my eyes!
What are you doing here?
You got an envelope from the government.
Shouldn't you be at school?
Yeah, this stop is on my way.
Nothing good can come
from this government full of crooks.
I told you not to talk that way.
You're not going to open it?
Later. I have to finish this paperwork.
Okay.
Bye, Dedé.
Very good, Félix. Very good.
Thank you, miss.
Here you go.
Ofelia, let's see your homework.
I couldn't do it, Miss Minerva.
Why not?
The thing is, I don't have a notebook.
You should have told me.
I could have gotten you one.
Let's see. Who else needs a notebook?
SCHOOL FOR ADULTS
I first heard about the Mirabal sisters
several years ago, and it fascinated me.
So, when my publisher asked me to write
Minerva's biography, I didn't think twice.
-Thank you.
-Please, take a seat.
-Would you like something to drink?
-Water, please.
- Beatriz.
- Yes?
- Could you bring us some water? Thank you.
- Sure.
Continue. Go on.
The book's going to be published
around the world,
with different translations
released together.
-Isn't it wonderful?
-Yes.
I thought you'd be pleased,
seeing as you knew Minerva.
Well, her and her sisters.
You were all friends when you lived
in the Dominican Republic.
Yes. We were friends,
but that was many years ago.
Thirty-eight years.
Oh, quick question. How did you find me?
Who told you that I knew Minerva?
Well, I've been traveling to
the Dominican Republic to gather material.
And it really helped
to interview the last surviving sister.
-Dedé?
-Yes, Dedé.
Hmm.
-Oh, thank you.
-Oh, thank you.
You're welcome.
So, she was the one
who told you about me?
No, but she loaned me material
because she's enthusiastic about the book.
And I found two or three photos
from Minerva's childhood in Salcedo
that you were in.
And your name was written on the back.
You know, before becoming a novelist,
I worked at a newspaper.
No.
And my investigative reporter side
took over and I thought,
"Arantxa Oyamburu…
What was a Spanish girl doing
in the Dominican Republic at that time?"
All right, let's eat.
- Yes. Hey, Minerva.
- Finally. You were missing.
I've been waiting for you.
Hi, Jaime. How has your week been?
Work and little sleep, but not bad.
-I'm hungry.
-Truly hungry people aren't picky.
-This smells delicious.
-Yes.
Thank you.
Try the pineapple cake we brought.
-Delicious.
-Oh, yum.
And a good liqueur.
Here, for Dad.
So, what are you waiting for?
Why don't you read the letter, please?
Mom.
The letter says,
"For this reason,
you are invited to the celebration
on October 12 in Villa Borinquen,
with the honorable president
of the nation,
Rafael Leónidas Trujillo Molina,
in attendance.
Your entire family is invited."
- A party.
- "Without further ado,
yours faithfully."
Finally, something fun.
I think we can all enjoy it.
We'll have a great time.
I don't have a dress.
I'll call Patria.
Are we seriously going?
Why do you ask, sweetie?
Am I seriously the only one who knows
what happens at those parties?
We can't say no.
So, it's not an invitation, it's an order.
-Minerva is right.
-Jaime.
Well. One of my cousins told me
that his pervert son once tried…
Jaime, please.
What? He tried what?
These guys think that all women
belong to them, that's what.
-Minerva, she's just a kid.
-So, fine. Fine.
We'll go to the dinner,
and then go back to life as normal.
Minerva, we all know
how you see things, sweetie.
But there are times in life when,
to play it safe,
we have to keep our opinions to ourselves.
I'm begging you, please,
when you see him--
Oh, Mom. Enough already.
Trujillo's the worst thing
for our country, but I'm not stupid.
I know how to bite my tongue.
Well, you see, I don't know
that I can be of much help to you,
because although we were
childhood friends in Salcedo,
well, I'm not sure that anything I say
will be useful to you.
Besides, Pilar, I'm very busy.
I have many students,
and I'm the only teacher.
Arantxa, it would just be
two or three chats for a couple of hours.
Yeah, but I really can't.
I don't have time.
Besides, if you already talked with Dedé
and others from the Dominican Republic…
It's just that your testimony
is important to me.
That's why I'm here, Arantxa.
A sister isn't the same as a friend.
And this book…
is truly going to be important.
It's going to be groundbreaking.
What makes it so groundbreaking?
So, I haven't told you the best part.
My publisher in New York has had access
to confidential information from the UN,
and they're going to declare November 25
International Day for the Elimination
of Violence Against Women.
You see?
The Butterflies are going to become
the symbol of women all over the world.
SANTIAGO LOVES YOU
Welcome.
Come with me.
Here is your table.
Allow me.
-There isn't room for all of us.
-No. There aren't enough chairs.
You two, could you please come with me
to that table over there?
I'd prefer to stay with my family.
I insist. Come with me.
Come on.
Alba, how are you?
Hi.
-And your parents?
-Oh, they're next to the main table.
-Hi, Alba.
-Hi.
-I really like your dress.
-Aw, thanks. Yours is pretty too.
My mom bought it for me last week.
Oh, that's beautiful.
That color looks really good on you.
Thanks. It looks nice on you too.
Attention!
Good evening. Thank you.
Long live our leader!
- Cheers.
- Cheers!
Shall we dance?
I'm fine. Thank you.
Oh, Mom, that man is the devil.
Who's the girl dancing with Ramfís?
That's one of Mr. Mirabal's daughters.
Her name is Minerva.
Ramfís.
May I?
Of course, Father.
It looks like my son
inherited his father's good taste.
Minerva, is that right?
Yes.
Such a pretty name.
Thanks, but I didn't choose it.
María Argentina Minerva Mirabal Reyes.
Are you surprised that I know your name?
Yes, a little.
It's my job,
to know everything about everyone.
Darling…
-Calm down, sweetie.
-Everything's fine.
There are many of us Dominicans.
2,135,872.
One never learns them all,
but I start with the most important ones.
And what makes me important?
The fact that you're a girl
from the countryside
who hangs out with students
with strange ideas.
Very strange ideas.
I spend time with students
because I'm preparing for college.
And what will you be studying?
Law.
Now I'm the one who's surprised.
Law.
Well, you would be the first woman
to try to get into the law school
in Ciudad Trujillo.
And I don't intend to die in the attempt.
Do you like politics?
More or less.
And what does the future lawyer
think of her president?
Hmm?
If the president knows everything
about everyone,
he knows my opinion.
Let's go.
You shouldn't have done that, sweetie.
Dad, a man touches your daughter
in front of everyone,
and all you can say is
that I shouldn't have done that?
Dad is trying to say that you could've
handled the situation differently.
- I saw how he touched her.
- We all saw it, Mate.
- So?
- Don't start an argument.
Bringing you caused a problem.
The problem is that that man thinks
that every woman belongs to him.
Sweetie.
Mom, Trujillo knows everything about us.
Who we are, who I meet with,
what I want to do with my life.
That doesn't scare you?
Think about it.
I'm going to stay here one more day.
This is the phone number of my hotel.
-Mm-hmm.
-I'll call you tomorrow.
I love strolling around this area
at this time of year.
And I hope you'll decide
to share your memories with me.
Yes, you're right, Pilar.
I need to think it over.
-Thanks.
-Great.
I hope you will.
"The inmates planned to put on the show
during the Christmas holidays.
The actors had been cast, preparations
were being made to set up the stage,
some people from the--"
Wait for me here.
-Mr. Enrique Mirabal?
-Yes, that's me.
You're under arrest
for anti-government conspiracy.
-What?
-What? That's a lie.
Enrique. What's going on?
-They're trying to take Dad, Mom.
-Dad.
-Calm down.
-Why are they taking him?
They're trying to take Dad under arrest?
-Dad.
-Where are they taking him? No.
-Careful.
-Dad.
Dad, don't worry.
Everything's going to be okay.
Dedé.
Mom, don't worry.
Oh, no, sweetie.
Look, you represent the police
in this province,
and it's your duty to investigate
the disappearance of a citizen.
Especially an upstanding citizen
of Salcedo like my dad.
Enough already. Don't waste your breath.
Ladies, follow me.
We've known each other for years.
I respect Don Enrique.
Like you said, he's an upstanding citizen.
If he were here, I wouldn't lie to you.
Look, two common prisoners.
Do you believe me or not?
Patria said maybe through Pedro.
Maybe if he calls
one of the people he knows.
- Did you call the lawyer?
- He didn't answer.
I just knew something bad
would happen because of her--
You just stop.
You promised
you were going to control your temper.
Dedé, please.
It's too dangerous to stay in the house,
and we won't solve anything from here.
Maybe Asier can help us.
He has good contacts at the university
and friends.
But we haven't heard from Asier in years.
I lost track of him a long time ago.
These are the letters Arantxa sent me.
She works at the Ovando Hotel.
Waiter.
Waiter.
Good evening.
What can I get you, gentlemen?
We need more champagne.
Right away.
Two more bottles of champagne
for the gentlemen.
-Would you like anything else?
-Not for now.
Excuse me.
Hey, wait a minute.
That accent.
Where are you from?
From Spain.
From San Sebastián, in the Basque Country.
Very impressive.
You're the prettiest Spaniard
to set foot in Ciudad Trujillo.
Why don't you sit here with us?
-I'd love to, but I can't.
-What do you mean, you can't?
What's more important
than drinking with a minister?
Right now, not getting fired from my job.
On top of everything else, she's funny.
No way they'd ever fire you with that--
that personality.
Excuse me.
Thank you for being here tonight.
I am pleased to announce
that this generous government
has just granted us land in Puerto Plata
to build one of the largest resort hotels
in the Dominican Republic.
And for those who tell lies
about our government,
they'll be able to see with their own eyes
what a paradise our country is becoming.
Thanks to our beloved benefactor,
Rafael Leónidas Trujillo.
I also want to give a very special thanks
to his brother,
the Minister of Communication and director
of the Dominican Voice radio station,
José Arismendi Trujillo,
who is here with us tonight.
Thank you, thank you
from the bottom of my heart, Minister,
because the station
is broadcasting this wonderful event live.
And now, over to the orchestra
and the wonderful voice of Julio César.
Thank you very much.
Maestro.
♪ What a glorious era for my country ♪
♪ In every way, the people are happy… ♪
-Minister, sir, how are you?
-Thank you.
♪ The coconut tree sways over there ♪
♪ What a vast splendor we have here ♪
♪ The emotions… ♪
Marcos, not here.
Your father could see us.
Seriously. I'm working.
Oh, come on, give me a kiss.
♪ I feel happiness ♪
♪ I feel love ♪
♪ All is glory ♪
♪ Long live our Benefactor ♪
God in Heaven, Trujillo on Earth.
Hmm?
I see it's not just a great personality
that you have.
Excuse me.
What's your name?
Arantxa.
Aran-- Aranza.
Hmm?
Would you like to be interviewed
for a special feature for a magazine?
-Me?
-Mm-hmm.
About what?
About a young immigrant looking to achieve
her dreams here in the Dominican Republic.
I would love it if you could.
Thank you.
It would depend on whether I could fit it
around my work schedule.
That won't be a problem.
I'll give you the details later.
Arantxa.
Great.
Was he talking to you?
Yes.
♪ In every way, the people are happy… ♪
I'll see if they have a room available
and be right back.
We'll wait for you.
Hi.
Dad, you scared me.
-Come on. Be careful.
-No, I'm fine. I'm fine.
-Hi, sweetie. How's it going?
-Good. Tired.
-Well, here. I'll make coffee.
-No. Don't worry, really.
Yes, sweetie. Yes. It's no trouble.
-There's no need.
-It'll do you good, you'll see.
What time is it?
Almost 1:00.
Honestly, Dad.
There's no need. I'm going to bed.
Yes, woman.
Where did I put the coffee? I just saw it.
I'm exhausted.
Exhausted from serving
the scum of this country, right?
Damn, the coffee.
Sweetie, where did you put the coffee?
It's in the cabinet.
How was it?
Good.
Good. Normal.
I wouldn't call all this normal.
What is it then?
A surreal country.
A charade, sweetie.
-Dad, really, don't start this again.
-Fine.
It's a job. It's my job.
Yes, but there are better jobs.
More decent jobs.
Decent is being able to pay the rent
every month, wouldn't you say?
You're in the mood to argue
and I'm really tired.
Seriously, I'm going to sleep.
It's been a long day.
You should get some sleep too.
Okay, but, sweetie… Hey.
Let's see. Turn around. Quickly.
No. No.
-Get up. You're coming with us. Move it!
-No!
Get up!
No!
Come on.
Let's go! Walk!
-Good morning.
-Good morning.
I'm looking for someone who works here,
Arantxa.
Minerva?
Minerva.
I can't believe it.
It's been so long since I last saw you.
This is Marcos, my boyfriend.
Nice to meet you.
The famous Minerva.
I've told him a lot about you.
All of her stories from Salcedo
have Minerva in them.
Yes, we spent a lot of time together.
Why didn't you tell me you were coming?
Give us a minute, Marcos.
Just remember we're running late, okay?
Okay.
What's wrong?
My dad has been taken prisoner.
What?
Don Enrique?
Why?
Yesterday some men came to the house.
We don't know what to do.
Minerva, has he done something?
It's a long story,
but he didn't do anything.
Look, forgive me,
but we don't know who to turn to.
Do you think Asier could do something?
Give me a minute.
Marcos, there's an emergency,
and I have to go.
You go by yourself. We'll talk tomorrow.
Come on.
Nice to meet you.
What route do you prefer, Your Excellency?
None.
Take me straight to San Cristóbal.
Alba. Look at your Generalissimo.
Bitch.
This way.
It's important that
your writing reflects your own reasoning.
I want to listen to you.
Think for yourselves.
Don't let yourselves be swayed
by other people's opinions. All right?
He should be almost done.
You're looking beautiful, Minerva.
You think they took your dad
because of what happened at the party?
It's the only reason.
He wasn't involved in anything political.
That son of a bitch hated to be rejected
by a woman in front of so many people.
It's terrible.
He thinks he's God.
We Dominicans dream of the day
when he disappears from this island.
I don't think everyone does.
Every day, I see Dominicans who think
Trujillo is the best president ever.
I don't know,
there's more construction, security.
Arantxa, those are all people
with cushy government jobs.
They're disgusting because they're
even willing to hand over their daughters.
That night, to please the Goat, Narváez
gave him his 15-year-old daughter, Alba.
His daughter. Fifteen years old.
Half the country is starving,
and they mask it with glamorous parties.
I don't give a shit
what those Dominicans think.
What about you?
What about me?
What do you think of the president?
I'm not Dominican.
By the way, do you still have it?
I always wear it.
I only take it off to shower and sleep.
Well, and other things.
With Marcos.
Marcos.
My first and only.
Marcos is very handsome.
Are you still thinking
about going to law school?
Yes, now more than ever.
And are you still thinking about dance?
From the moment I wake up.
Minerva.
What are you two doing here?
THE BASQUE
This bar is like
his second home.
The owner is Basque
and thinks just like my father.
When he closes, they spend hours
drinking and talking about politics.
You like coming here?
I'm indifferent.
Their political topics bore me.
They talk about revolution,
but all they do is serve coffee.
Thank you very much, thank you.
So,
I talked to a good friend,
García del Prado,
one of the few lawyers with ethics
left in this country.
He's on his way.
He didn't want to risk
speaking on the phone.
He suspects that
General Anglat's people are spying on him.
He suggested that we should
file a petition for habeas corpus.
So, Minerva,
we have to question the legality
of the arrest as soon as possible.
Trujillo controls all the justice
in this country.
Not so fast. There are still
some judges outside the regime.
I've heard that some appeals
have been successful.
What's our next move, then?
Well, let's hear what he has to say.
Of course, the final decision
is up to you and your family.
But we must act as soon as possible,
Minerva.
Every hour that passes will be worse
for Don Enrique, wherever they have him.
- Is this the cockroach?
- Yes, sir.
Revolutionary Democratic
or Popular Socialist?
No, sir. I'm a shopkeeper.
I don't get involved in politics.
Everyone in this country
is involved in politics.
It's the national pastime.
Well, you made a mistake with me.
No. We don't make mistakes around here.
Insurrection,
promotion of illegal activity
and open criticism of the leader of
the Republic and the national government.
I never did any of that. I work all day.
We already know what kind of work you do.
And it's true
that you didn't do this directly.
-But your daughter does.
-No, my daughter--
And that rat was raised by another rat.
You.
Do you like cockroaches?
I said, do you like cockroaches?
Tell me, do you like them or not?
-No! No!
-Me neither.
In fact, I detest them.
But you agree with me
that if you don't exterminate them
they can become an infestation, right?
And before taking care of the baby
cockroaches that you raised,
we'll give you a taste of what happens
when you insult the Benefactor.
Any questions?
Minerva Mirabal.
Thank you for coming, sir.
Arantxa is my daughter.
-Nice to meet you.
-My pleasure.
Please, take a seat.
Coffee, please.
Professor Oyamburu
told me about the situation.
I can't say that I'm shocked because
anything is possible in this country
if it comes from Trujillo.
What do you think
would be most advisable to do?
Habeas corpus.
Any person deprived of their liberty
who was not sentenced by a judge
or court of competent jurisdiction
has the immediate right to be--
Sir, I'll save you the trouble
of explaining it to me.
I'm very familiar with Law 5353
relating to habeas corpus.
Oh, let's get straight to it then.
-Excuse me, sir.
-Thank you very much.
Do you really think it can work?
I don't want to create false hope
for myself or my mom or sisters.
It's worth a shot. Absolutely.
That law was passed in 1914,
and you know full well that Trujillo
just ignores any law not created by him.
You're right, Minerva.
But to avoid any false expectations,
you should know
that if the judge accepts the petition,
he won't necessarily set your father free,
but this will serve as a tool
for international organizations
and the press to protest
and reveal what's happening
in this country.
The only thing this thug cares about
is his image abroad.
I'm convinced that some embassies
will help us get the word out.
Exactly. But not your country's embassy.
I don't think there are any Dominicans
in the Basque Country's embassy.
So, Minerva, do you want to do this?
Tomorrow at ten o'clock sharp
at the Enríquez courthouse.
They have to give us a hearing.
Tomorrow at 10:00. I'll be there.
I'll be there with you.
Wow.
The best has been saved for last.
-Thank you for agreeing to this.
-It's an honor.
Have they already explained
what you have to do?
-No, I just arrived.
-Oh, it's quite simple.
They'll ask you some questions about
how you came to the Dominican Republic,
where you're from,
what opportunities you have
in this country, this great country,
and, a photo for the magazine.
-All right.
-And, they'll also ask you
if you have any dreams
that you'd like to come true here.
What? What is it?
Do you have a dream?
Will you tell me what it is?
Yes. I've always wanted to be
a classically trained ballet dancer.
- Come with me.
- A bit more to the right.
Okay. We're done here.
Thank you very much.
-Thank you.
-Hello.
I want you to take an artistic picture
of this young lady.
I want you to make this Spanish beauty
look good.
You just relax. I'll take care of you.
- You must make her look like a movie star.
- Yes, sir.
- All right, maestro, make her shine.
- Yes, sir.
Minerva Mirabal.
I'd wager that's you.
Now I see why the Generalissimo
is interested.
You don't have permission to be here.
We have permission for everything.
We're not going anywhere.
I'd take all of you,
but there's only room for you.
Don't take her. Take me.
Ma'am, don't make me use force.
Cooperate for your father's sake. Come on.
Don't worry.
Everything's going to be fine.
Stand over there.
You come over here. Come.
You stay here, and Pola here.
You stay like that, and you come here.
Here… Turn this way. Perfect!
Ah.
Our Benefactor.
All characters and events depicted
have been created for dramatic purposes.
Any similarity with reality
is purely coincidental.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
NOVEMBER 25, 1960
Something's happening.
No.
Patria!
No. Let go of me!
Let go of me.
Help!
The CRY of the BUTTERFLIES
SPAIN - JULY 1999
Yes, I think this is it, yeah.
Okay, great.
Thank you.
All right.
Bye.
Watch your hands.
Very good. Very good.
Remember that you dance not only
with your body, but with your heart.
Itziar, hands.
Arantxa, excuse me,
but there's someone here to see you.
Who?
Pilar Macías, the writer.
Watch the class for me, please.
- Girls, let's go to the barre.
- Hello.
-Arantxa, it's a pleasure to meet you.
-Ah.
Likewise.
Sorry, I didn't know you were coming.
No. Forgive me for showing up like this.
I left you a few phone messages,
but since I hadn't heard from you,
in my hurry, I thought,
"I'll just introduce myself in person."
And it wasn't such a long trip.
-A trip? From where?
-From Zaragoza.
Well, from Zaragoza to Madrid,
and then by train from Madrid.
And what did you want to see me for?
So, I'm writing a book.
I'm pretty far along, but I didn't want
to finish without talking to you first.
Oh, a book.
And what is the book about?
It's about Minerva Mirabal.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
OCTOBER 1949
Someone's at the door. There's a letter.
I'll go. I'm leaving for school.
Are you coming for dinner?
Your sister will be there with Jaime.
Of course.
I wouldn't miss your rice for the world.
-Good luck, Mine.
-Thanks.
♪ And how wretched is the fate
That wrongs me ♪
♪ And how absurd is the reason… ♪
KEROSENE - OIL - CORN
-Good morning, Mario.
-Good morning, madam.
Hello.
I can't believe my eyes!
What are you doing here?
You got an envelope from the government.
Shouldn't you be at school?
Yeah, this stop is on my way.
Nothing good can come
from this government full of crooks.
I told you not to talk that way.
You're not going to open it?
Later. I have to finish this paperwork.
Okay.
Bye, Dedé.
Very good, Félix. Very good.
Thank you, miss.
Here you go.
Ofelia, let's see your homework.
I couldn't do it, Miss Minerva.
Why not?
The thing is, I don't have a notebook.
You should have told me.
I could have gotten you one.
Let's see. Who else needs a notebook?
SCHOOL FOR ADULTS
I first heard about the Mirabal sisters
several years ago, and it fascinated me.
So, when my publisher asked me to write
Minerva's biography, I didn't think twice.
-Thank you.
-Please, take a seat.
-Would you like something to drink?
-Water, please.
- Beatriz.
- Yes?
- Could you bring us some water? Thank you.
- Sure.
Continue. Go on.
The book's going to be published
around the world,
with different translations
released together.
-Isn't it wonderful?
-Yes.
I thought you'd be pleased,
seeing as you knew Minerva.
Well, her and her sisters.
You were all friends when you lived
in the Dominican Republic.
Yes. We were friends,
but that was many years ago.
Thirty-eight years.
Oh, quick question. How did you find me?
Who told you that I knew Minerva?
Well, I've been traveling to
the Dominican Republic to gather material.
And it really helped
to interview the last surviving sister.
-Dedé?
-Yes, Dedé.
Hmm.
-Oh, thank you.
-Oh, thank you.
You're welcome.
So, she was the one
who told you about me?
No, but she loaned me material
because she's enthusiastic about the book.
And I found two or three photos
from Minerva's childhood in Salcedo
that you were in.
And your name was written on the back.
You know, before becoming a novelist,
I worked at a newspaper.
No.
And my investigative reporter side
took over and I thought,
"Arantxa Oyamburu…
What was a Spanish girl doing
in the Dominican Republic at that time?"
All right, let's eat.
- Yes. Hey, Minerva.
- Finally. You were missing.
I've been waiting for you.
Hi, Jaime. How has your week been?
Work and little sleep, but not bad.
-I'm hungry.
-Truly hungry people aren't picky.
-This smells delicious.
-Yes.
Thank you.
Try the pineapple cake we brought.
-Delicious.
-Oh, yum.
And a good liqueur.
Here, for Dad.
So, what are you waiting for?
Why don't you read the letter, please?
Mom.
The letter says,
"For this reason,
you are invited to the celebration
on October 12 in Villa Borinquen,
with the honorable president
of the nation,
Rafael Leónidas Trujillo Molina,
in attendance.
Your entire family is invited."
- A party.
- "Without further ado,
yours faithfully."
Finally, something fun.
I think we can all enjoy it.
We'll have a great time.
I don't have a dress.
I'll call Patria.
Are we seriously going?
Why do you ask, sweetie?
Am I seriously the only one who knows
what happens at those parties?
We can't say no.
So, it's not an invitation, it's an order.
-Minerva is right.
-Jaime.
Well. One of my cousins told me
that his pervert son once tried…
Jaime, please.
What? He tried what?
These guys think that all women
belong to them, that's what.
-Minerva, she's just a kid.
-So, fine. Fine.
We'll go to the dinner,
and then go back to life as normal.
Minerva, we all know
how you see things, sweetie.
But there are times in life when,
to play it safe,
we have to keep our opinions to ourselves.
I'm begging you, please,
when you see him--
Oh, Mom. Enough already.
Trujillo's the worst thing
for our country, but I'm not stupid.
I know how to bite my tongue.
Well, you see, I don't know
that I can be of much help to you,
because although we were
childhood friends in Salcedo,
well, I'm not sure that anything I say
will be useful to you.
Besides, Pilar, I'm very busy.
I have many students,
and I'm the only teacher.
Arantxa, it would just be
two or three chats for a couple of hours.
Yeah, but I really can't.
I don't have time.
Besides, if you already talked with Dedé
and others from the Dominican Republic…
It's just that your testimony
is important to me.
That's why I'm here, Arantxa.
A sister isn't the same as a friend.
And this book…
is truly going to be important.
It's going to be groundbreaking.
What makes it so groundbreaking?
So, I haven't told you the best part.
My publisher in New York has had access
to confidential information from the UN,
and they're going to declare November 25
International Day for the Elimination
of Violence Against Women.
You see?
The Butterflies are going to become
the symbol of women all over the world.
SANTIAGO LOVES YOU
Welcome.
Come with me.
Here is your table.
Allow me.
-There isn't room for all of us.
-No. There aren't enough chairs.
You two, could you please come with me
to that table over there?
I'd prefer to stay with my family.
I insist. Come with me.
Come on.
Alba, how are you?
Hi.
-And your parents?
-Oh, they're next to the main table.
-Hi, Alba.
-Hi.
-I really like your dress.
-Aw, thanks. Yours is pretty too.
My mom bought it for me last week.
Oh, that's beautiful.
That color looks really good on you.
Thanks. It looks nice on you too.
Attention!
Good evening. Thank you.
Long live our leader!
- Cheers.
- Cheers!
Shall we dance?
I'm fine. Thank you.
Oh, Mom, that man is the devil.
Who's the girl dancing with Ramfís?
That's one of Mr. Mirabal's daughters.
Her name is Minerva.
Ramfís.
May I?
Of course, Father.
It looks like my son
inherited his father's good taste.
Minerva, is that right?
Yes.
Such a pretty name.
Thanks, but I didn't choose it.
María Argentina Minerva Mirabal Reyes.
Are you surprised that I know your name?
Yes, a little.
It's my job,
to know everything about everyone.
Darling…
-Calm down, sweetie.
-Everything's fine.
There are many of us Dominicans.
2,135,872.
One never learns them all,
but I start with the most important ones.
And what makes me important?
The fact that you're a girl
from the countryside
who hangs out with students
with strange ideas.
Very strange ideas.
I spend time with students
because I'm preparing for college.
And what will you be studying?
Law.
Now I'm the one who's surprised.
Law.
Well, you would be the first woman
to try to get into the law school
in Ciudad Trujillo.
And I don't intend to die in the attempt.
Do you like politics?
More or less.
And what does the future lawyer
think of her president?
Hmm?
If the president knows everything
about everyone,
he knows my opinion.
Let's go.
You shouldn't have done that, sweetie.
Dad, a man touches your daughter
in front of everyone,
and all you can say is
that I shouldn't have done that?
Dad is trying to say that you could've
handled the situation differently.
- I saw how he touched her.
- We all saw it, Mate.
- So?
- Don't start an argument.
Bringing you caused a problem.
The problem is that that man thinks
that every woman belongs to him.
Sweetie.
Mom, Trujillo knows everything about us.
Who we are, who I meet with,
what I want to do with my life.
That doesn't scare you?
Think about it.
I'm going to stay here one more day.
This is the phone number of my hotel.
-Mm-hmm.
-I'll call you tomorrow.
I love strolling around this area
at this time of year.
And I hope you'll decide
to share your memories with me.
Yes, you're right, Pilar.
I need to think it over.
-Thanks.
-Great.
I hope you will.
"The inmates planned to put on the show
during the Christmas holidays.
The actors had been cast, preparations
were being made to set up the stage,
some people from the--"
Wait for me here.
-Mr. Enrique Mirabal?
-Yes, that's me.
You're under arrest
for anti-government conspiracy.
-What?
-What? That's a lie.
Enrique. What's going on?
-They're trying to take Dad, Mom.
-Dad.
-Calm down.
-Why are they taking him?
They're trying to take Dad under arrest?
-Dad.
-Where are they taking him? No.
-Careful.
-Dad.
Dad, don't worry.
Everything's going to be okay.
Dedé.
Mom, don't worry.
Oh, no, sweetie.
Look, you represent the police
in this province,
and it's your duty to investigate
the disappearance of a citizen.
Especially an upstanding citizen
of Salcedo like my dad.
Enough already. Don't waste your breath.
Ladies, follow me.
We've known each other for years.
I respect Don Enrique.
Like you said, he's an upstanding citizen.
If he were here, I wouldn't lie to you.
Look, two common prisoners.
Do you believe me or not?
Patria said maybe through Pedro.
Maybe if he calls
one of the people he knows.
- Did you call the lawyer?
- He didn't answer.
I just knew something bad
would happen because of her--
You just stop.
You promised
you were going to control your temper.
Dedé, please.
It's too dangerous to stay in the house,
and we won't solve anything from here.
Maybe Asier can help us.
He has good contacts at the university
and friends.
But we haven't heard from Asier in years.
I lost track of him a long time ago.
These are the letters Arantxa sent me.
She works at the Ovando Hotel.
Waiter.
Waiter.
Good evening.
What can I get you, gentlemen?
We need more champagne.
Right away.
Two more bottles of champagne
for the gentlemen.
-Would you like anything else?
-Not for now.
Excuse me.
Hey, wait a minute.
That accent.
Where are you from?
From Spain.
From San Sebastián, in the Basque Country.
Very impressive.
You're the prettiest Spaniard
to set foot in Ciudad Trujillo.
Why don't you sit here with us?
-I'd love to, but I can't.
-What do you mean, you can't?
What's more important
than drinking with a minister?
Right now, not getting fired from my job.
On top of everything else, she's funny.
No way they'd ever fire you with that--
that personality.
Excuse me.
Thank you for being here tonight.
I am pleased to announce
that this generous government
has just granted us land in Puerto Plata
to build one of the largest resort hotels
in the Dominican Republic.
And for those who tell lies
about our government,
they'll be able to see with their own eyes
what a paradise our country is becoming.
Thanks to our beloved benefactor,
Rafael Leónidas Trujillo.
I also want to give a very special thanks
to his brother,
the Minister of Communication and director
of the Dominican Voice radio station,
José Arismendi Trujillo,
who is here with us tonight.
Thank you, thank you
from the bottom of my heart, Minister,
because the station
is broadcasting this wonderful event live.
And now, over to the orchestra
and the wonderful voice of Julio César.
Thank you very much.
Maestro.
♪ What a glorious era for my country ♪
♪ In every way, the people are happy… ♪
-Minister, sir, how are you?
-Thank you.
♪ The coconut tree sways over there ♪
♪ What a vast splendor we have here ♪
♪ The emotions… ♪
Marcos, not here.
Your father could see us.
Seriously. I'm working.
Oh, come on, give me a kiss.
♪ I feel happiness ♪
♪ I feel love ♪
♪ All is glory ♪
♪ Long live our Benefactor ♪
God in Heaven, Trujillo on Earth.
Hmm?
I see it's not just a great personality
that you have.
Excuse me.
What's your name?
Arantxa.
Aran-- Aranza.
Hmm?
Would you like to be interviewed
for a special feature for a magazine?
-Me?
-Mm-hmm.
About what?
About a young immigrant looking to achieve
her dreams here in the Dominican Republic.
I would love it if you could.
Thank you.
It would depend on whether I could fit it
around my work schedule.
That won't be a problem.
I'll give you the details later.
Arantxa.
Great.
Was he talking to you?
Yes.
♪ In every way, the people are happy… ♪
I'll see if they have a room available
and be right back.
We'll wait for you.
Hi.
Dad, you scared me.
-Come on. Be careful.
-No, I'm fine. I'm fine.
-Hi, sweetie. How's it going?
-Good. Tired.
-Well, here. I'll make coffee.
-No. Don't worry, really.
Yes, sweetie. Yes. It's no trouble.
-There's no need.
-It'll do you good, you'll see.
What time is it?
Almost 1:00.
Honestly, Dad.
There's no need. I'm going to bed.
Yes, woman.
Where did I put the coffee? I just saw it.
I'm exhausted.
Exhausted from serving
the scum of this country, right?
Damn, the coffee.
Sweetie, where did you put the coffee?
It's in the cabinet.
How was it?
Good.
Good. Normal.
I wouldn't call all this normal.
What is it then?
A surreal country.
A charade, sweetie.
-Dad, really, don't start this again.
-Fine.
It's a job. It's my job.
Yes, but there are better jobs.
More decent jobs.
Decent is being able to pay the rent
every month, wouldn't you say?
You're in the mood to argue
and I'm really tired.
Seriously, I'm going to sleep.
It's been a long day.
You should get some sleep too.
Okay, but, sweetie… Hey.
Let's see. Turn around. Quickly.
No. No.
-Get up. You're coming with us. Move it!
-No!
Get up!
No!
Come on.
Let's go! Walk!
-Good morning.
-Good morning.
I'm looking for someone who works here,
Arantxa.
Minerva?
Minerva.
I can't believe it.
It's been so long since I last saw you.
This is Marcos, my boyfriend.
Nice to meet you.
The famous Minerva.
I've told him a lot about you.
All of her stories from Salcedo
have Minerva in them.
Yes, we spent a lot of time together.
Why didn't you tell me you were coming?
Give us a minute, Marcos.
Just remember we're running late, okay?
Okay.
What's wrong?
My dad has been taken prisoner.
What?
Don Enrique?
Why?
Yesterday some men came to the house.
We don't know what to do.
Minerva, has he done something?
It's a long story,
but he didn't do anything.
Look, forgive me,
but we don't know who to turn to.
Do you think Asier could do something?
Give me a minute.
Marcos, there's an emergency,
and I have to go.
You go by yourself. We'll talk tomorrow.
Come on.
Nice to meet you.
What route do you prefer, Your Excellency?
None.
Take me straight to San Cristóbal.
Alba. Look at your Generalissimo.
Bitch.
This way.
It's important that
your writing reflects your own reasoning.
I want to listen to you.
Think for yourselves.
Don't let yourselves be swayed
by other people's opinions. All right?
He should be almost done.
You're looking beautiful, Minerva.
You think they took your dad
because of what happened at the party?
It's the only reason.
He wasn't involved in anything political.
That son of a bitch hated to be rejected
by a woman in front of so many people.
It's terrible.
He thinks he's God.
We Dominicans dream of the day
when he disappears from this island.
I don't think everyone does.
Every day, I see Dominicans who think
Trujillo is the best president ever.
I don't know,
there's more construction, security.
Arantxa, those are all people
with cushy government jobs.
They're disgusting because they're
even willing to hand over their daughters.
That night, to please the Goat, Narváez
gave him his 15-year-old daughter, Alba.
His daughter. Fifteen years old.
Half the country is starving,
and they mask it with glamorous parties.
I don't give a shit
what those Dominicans think.
What about you?
What about me?
What do you think of the president?
I'm not Dominican.
By the way, do you still have it?
I always wear it.
I only take it off to shower and sleep.
Well, and other things.
With Marcos.
Marcos.
My first and only.
Marcos is very handsome.
Are you still thinking
about going to law school?
Yes, now more than ever.
And are you still thinking about dance?
From the moment I wake up.
Minerva.
What are you two doing here?
THE BASQUE
This bar is like
his second home.
The owner is Basque
and thinks just like my father.
When he closes, they spend hours
drinking and talking about politics.
You like coming here?
I'm indifferent.
Their political topics bore me.
They talk about revolution,
but all they do is serve coffee.
Thank you very much, thank you.
So,
I talked to a good friend,
García del Prado,
one of the few lawyers with ethics
left in this country.
He's on his way.
He didn't want to risk
speaking on the phone.
He suspects that
General Anglat's people are spying on him.
He suggested that we should
file a petition for habeas corpus.
So, Minerva,
we have to question the legality
of the arrest as soon as possible.
Trujillo controls all the justice
in this country.
Not so fast. There are still
some judges outside the regime.
I've heard that some appeals
have been successful.
What's our next move, then?
Well, let's hear what he has to say.
Of course, the final decision
is up to you and your family.
But we must act as soon as possible,
Minerva.
Every hour that passes will be worse
for Don Enrique, wherever they have him.
- Is this the cockroach?
- Yes, sir.
Revolutionary Democratic
or Popular Socialist?
No, sir. I'm a shopkeeper.
I don't get involved in politics.
Everyone in this country
is involved in politics.
It's the national pastime.
Well, you made a mistake with me.
No. We don't make mistakes around here.
Insurrection,
promotion of illegal activity
and open criticism of the leader of
the Republic and the national government.
I never did any of that. I work all day.
We already know what kind of work you do.
And it's true
that you didn't do this directly.
-But your daughter does.
-No, my daughter--
And that rat was raised by another rat.
You.
Do you like cockroaches?
I said, do you like cockroaches?
Tell me, do you like them or not?
-No! No!
-Me neither.
In fact, I detest them.
But you agree with me
that if you don't exterminate them
they can become an infestation, right?
And before taking care of the baby
cockroaches that you raised,
we'll give you a taste of what happens
when you insult the Benefactor.
Any questions?
Minerva Mirabal.
Thank you for coming, sir.
Arantxa is my daughter.
-Nice to meet you.
-My pleasure.
Please, take a seat.
Coffee, please.
Professor Oyamburu
told me about the situation.
I can't say that I'm shocked because
anything is possible in this country
if it comes from Trujillo.
What do you think
would be most advisable to do?
Habeas corpus.
Any person deprived of their liberty
who was not sentenced by a judge
or court of competent jurisdiction
has the immediate right to be--
Sir, I'll save you the trouble
of explaining it to me.
I'm very familiar with Law 5353
relating to habeas corpus.
Oh, let's get straight to it then.
-Excuse me, sir.
-Thank you very much.
Do you really think it can work?
I don't want to create false hope
for myself or my mom or sisters.
It's worth a shot. Absolutely.
That law was passed in 1914,
and you know full well that Trujillo
just ignores any law not created by him.
You're right, Minerva.
But to avoid any false expectations,
you should know
that if the judge accepts the petition,
he won't necessarily set your father free,
but this will serve as a tool
for international organizations
and the press to protest
and reveal what's happening
in this country.
The only thing this thug cares about
is his image abroad.
I'm convinced that some embassies
will help us get the word out.
Exactly. But not your country's embassy.
I don't think there are any Dominicans
in the Basque Country's embassy.
So, Minerva, do you want to do this?
Tomorrow at ten o'clock sharp
at the Enríquez courthouse.
They have to give us a hearing.
Tomorrow at 10:00. I'll be there.
I'll be there with you.
Wow.
The best has been saved for last.
-Thank you for agreeing to this.
-It's an honor.
Have they already explained
what you have to do?
-No, I just arrived.
-Oh, it's quite simple.
They'll ask you some questions about
how you came to the Dominican Republic,
where you're from,
what opportunities you have
in this country, this great country,
and, a photo for the magazine.
-All right.
-And, they'll also ask you
if you have any dreams
that you'd like to come true here.
What? What is it?
Do you have a dream?
Will you tell me what it is?
Yes. I've always wanted to be
a classically trained ballet dancer.
- Come with me.
- A bit more to the right.
Okay. We're done here.
Thank you very much.
-Thank you.
-Hello.
I want you to take an artistic picture
of this young lady.
I want you to make this Spanish beauty
look good.
You just relax. I'll take care of you.
- You must make her look like a movie star.
- Yes, sir.
- All right, maestro, make her shine.
- Yes, sir.
Minerva Mirabal.
I'd wager that's you.
Now I see why the Generalissimo
is interested.
You don't have permission to be here.
We have permission for everything.
We're not going anywhere.
I'd take all of you,
but there's only room for you.
Don't take her. Take me.
Ma'am, don't make me use force.
Cooperate for your father's sake. Come on.
Don't worry.
Everything's going to be fine.
Stand over there.
You come over here. Come.
You stay here, and Pola here.
You stay like that, and you come here.
Here… Turn this way. Perfect!
Ah.
Our Benefactor.