‘A Child of My Own’ Review: Award-Winning Chilean Documaker Maite Alberdi Ventures North to Mexico for a Chronicle of a Faked Pregnancy

Hollywood Reporter

by Leslie Felperin

February 15, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Award-winning Chilean filmmaker Maite Alberdi’s latest project, *A Child of My Own* (*Un hijo propio*), is a groundbreaking blend of fiction and fact that tells the story of Alejandra, a young woman driven to extreme lengths to fulfill her maternal desires. The film follows Alejandra as she fakes a pregnancy in an attempt to silence her overbearing relatives and prove her worth as a wife and future mother. Alberdi’s innovative approach combines interviews with participants in this real-life drama with re-enactments, creating a unique and engaging narrative that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. Set against the backdrop of Mexico, the film delves into Alejandra’s emotional journey, which takes a dark turn after multiple miscarriages leave her desperate for a child. Her scheme to fake a pregnancy involves impersonating another woman who agrees to give up her baby, all while navigating the challenges of convincing her husband and avoiding detection by hospital staff. Alberdi’s clever storytelling, enhanced by Ana Celeste Montalvo Peña’s compelling performance as Alejandra, brings this complex character to life, blending humor and heartbreak in equal measure. The film’s exploration of societal pressure, identity, and the lengths people will go to for love and validation adds depth to its narrative. Alberdi’s ability to mix documentary-style interviews with scripted re-enactments sets *A Child of My Own* apart from traditional documentaries, offering a fresh perspective on storytelling in cinema. This blend of genres not only highlights Alejandra’s psychological struggles but also critiques the expectations placed on women in matters of love and reproduction. For entertainment enthusiasts, this film is a compelling example of how modern cinema can challenge traditional storytelling techniques while exploring deeply human themes. Its unique approach to blending fact and fiction makes it a thought-provoking watch for anyone interested in the power of narrative and the complexities of identity. With its rich characters and emotional depth, *A Child of My Own* solidifies Alberdi’s reputation as a filmmaker who pushes boundaries and creates unforgettable stories.

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/15/2026