Paula and La Maestra are 16 and inseparable. The strongest swimmers on their team, they are training together over the summer to represent Mexico at the Junior Pan American Swimming Championships. One night at a party, Paula ends up alone with Daniel, a good friend and her long-time crush. Amid reggaeton, flirting and shots, Paula and Daniel slip into the bathroom together. Soon after, La Maestra senses that something has changed. Paula seems distant and deeply sad. At first, she insists nothing is wrong, but La Maestra keeps pushing until her friend begins to talk about what happened that night. Searching for answers, they try to name the experience, and what they find feels devastating. As the two girls respond in different ways, their bond is put to the test. Paula needs time, while La Maestra feels compelled to speak out. Fear, feelings of guilt and anger begin to fracture their friendship, pushing them towards a decision that will redefine who they are, together and apart.

This is the synopsis for Sad Girlz, the first feature by Mexican filmmaker Fernanda Tovar, the world premiere of which is taking place in the Generation 14plus section of the upcoming Berlinale (12-22 February).

Fernanda Tovar is a member of Colectivo Colmena. Her short film Mi edad, la tuya y la edad del mundo screened in Cannes' Critics' Week and received a Special Mention at the Morelia International Film Festival, and her short film Quiero estrellarme en seco contra el parabrisas del amor premiered at Tribeca. Sad Girlz is her debut feature film.

Written by Tovar herself, the film stars Rocio Guzmán, Darana Álvarez, Tatsumi Milori, Tomás García-Agraz and Mónica Del Carmen. The film was produced by Mexican firm Colectivo Colmena in co-production with Potenza Producciones (Spain), Promenades Films (France), Martini Shot Films (Mexico) and CTT Exp & Rentals (Mexico). International sales are handled by France's Alpha Violet.

Check out our exclusive poster below: