Three lives intersect in a Mixtec community in the highlands of the Mexican state of Oaxaca. During the festival of San Mateo, patron saint of the similarly-named village, María, Esteban and Toña return to their birthplace, each from a different direction. Each of them has a different reason for coming back, just like each had a different reason to leave in the first place. However, all three face a confrontation that will force a turning point in their lives.
The three stories momentarily intersect with each other, and together form a portmanteau narrative that paints an exceptional picture of the local culture, in which filmmaker Ángeles Cruz herself grew up. Festivities, rituals and a village council that acts as a tribunal – these elements make up the fabric of a community that offers protection, warmth and security. However, the fates of the three protagonists will reveal that there are limitations and hazards here too.
Trailer
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Interview
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Film details
- Country of production
- Mexico
- Year
- 2021
- Festival edition
- IFFR 2021
- Length
- 91'
- Medium/Format
- DCP
