Unmissable Cinema Spectacles at Mexico Film Festival
Uncovering the Gems of Early Mexican Cinema
Mexican cinema has a rich and diverse history, with over 5,000 films produced since its inception. While popular classics like Los Olvidados (1950) and Macario (1960) are well-known, there are lesser-known gems that are equally important in Mexican cinema history.
One such film is "Tepeyac" (1917), a significant silent film focusing on the Virgin of Guadalupe apparitions and early 20th-century customs. It is a testament to the religious and cultural roots of Mexico, making it a must-watch for those interested in the country's history. You can watch "Tepeyac" on Filmoteca en Línea.
Another notable film is "Let's Go with Pancho Villa" (1936), a revolutionary-themed film directed by Fernando de Fuentes and featuring Domingo Soler as the Centaur of the North. The film provides a unique perspective on Mexico's revolutionary past and can be watched on Nuestro Cine MX.
Moving into the sound era, "La mujer del puerto" (1934) is a seminal melodrama about a woman forced into prostitution, notable for its early sound era cinematography. "María Candelaria" (1944) portrays indigenous life and won the Grand Prix at Cannes, although it is sometimes overshadowed internationally. "El compadre Mendoza" (1934), set during the Mexican Revolution, highlights social issues with a neorealist style, while "La perla" (1947) is an adaptation of John Steinbeck’s novella, dealing with social injustice and fate. "Ánimas Trujano" (1962) offers an authentic portrayal of rural life and indigenous culture.
Unfortunately, many films from this period are challenging to find due to archival limitations and distribution constraints. However, film archives and cultural institutions like the Mexican Film Institute (IMCINE) and Cineteca Nacional often restore and screen classic Mexican films. Streaming platforms like Kanopy specially cater to indie, classic, and world cinema, and may include rarer Mexican films. Certain film festivals periodically showcase early Mexican cinema classics, and some companies release curated collections of classic Mexican films.
"EVEN THE WIND IS AFRAID" (1968), directed by Carlos Enrique Taboada, is a key film in Mexican horror cinema and is available to watch on Tubi. "TWO KINDS OF CARE" (1953), directed by Ismael Rodríguez, is an emblematic film of Mexican ranchera comedy and can be watched on ViX.
Another important film is "THE SCREAM" (1968), which portrays the 1968 student movement. The army meticulously reviewed the building where "THE SCREAM" was recorded after the massacre in the Plaza de las Tres Culturas de Tlatelolco. "THE SCREAM" is available to watch on Filmoteca en Línea.
This Friday marks Mexican Cinema Day, a celebration of the country's rich and diverse film history. Don't miss out on the opportunity to discover these lesser-known classics that contribute significantly to Mexican cinema.
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