There is a gaping flaw in the plot of this otherwise fine movie. The abused boy, Pablo, is taken to a hospital emergency room and his injured eyes stitched up by a doctor. In the real world, the examination of this beaten boy would immediately trigger an investigation of "trauma X". The hospital and the doctor are legally (and ethically) required to report all cases of potential child abuse.
Perhaps Alberto's family may fear that they will be accused. X-rays can reveal prior healed fractures, and the pattern of healed scars and of the present injuries would reliably point to abuse predating Pablo's acquaintance with Alfredo and his family.
It is very strange to watch a movie that unfolds with realistic portraits of the two families and their social milieus and then jump to a completely implausible ethical dilemma of whether or not Pablo should be returned to his abusive father.
Perhaps Alberto's family may fear that they will be accused. X-rays can reveal prior healed fractures, and the pattern of healed scars and of the present injuries would reliably point to abuse predating Pablo's acquaintance with Alfredo and his family.
It is very strange to watch a movie that unfolds with realistic portraits of the two families and their social milieus and then jump to a completely implausible ethical dilemma of whether or not Pablo should be returned to his abusive father.