"Ahogada," written and directed by Macarena Mochón and produced by Hidden Stories, is participating in the Short Film Corner at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, a platform dedicated to promoting new talent. The short film will be part of the Cannes Short Film Corner and is already in development as a feature-length adaptation. This international platform brings together emerging filmmakers with programmers, distributors, and industry professionals from around the world.
Starring Candela Saitta ("Máxima," "The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon") and Lucas Velasco ("El internado," "UPA"), the short centers on the issue of stealthing—a term that describes the act of removing a condom during sex without the other person's consent. This act, often overlooked in conversations about consent, is explored in depth in "Ahogada," aiming to raise awareness and foster dialogue about the importance of consent in intimate relationships.
The project originated from a conversation between Hidden Stories’ founders Ashley Mochón and Macarena Mochón about this lesser-known concept. A thorough research process followed, including workshops and training sessions for the entire technical and creative team. The objective was not only to raise awareness within the crew but also to ensure everyone was aligned in telling this story with the utmost respect and empathy.
The film follows Clara, a 16-year-old girl trapped in her bathroom as she prepares to take a pregnancy test. While facing her fear and confusion, she begins to remember her last sexual encounter with her boyfriend Nico on the beach.