From Intimate Moments to Grand Discourses

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MOVIE REVIEW
Personal and Political: The Films of Natalia Almada
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2001, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2016, 2021
Director(s): Natalia Almada
Where To Watch: available September 5, 2023; pre-order here: www.icarusfilms.com, or www.amazon.com

Check out my review of the film USERS, which is included in this set: www.ohmr.themailnewspapers.com

RAVING REVIEW: If cinema is the key to our emotions, then Natalia Almada has crafted the master skeleton key with the PERSONAL AND POLITICAL: THE FILMS OF NATALIA ALMADA collection. Like the opening pages of a diary, every film offers a fresh scene, a new emotion, and a chapter of Mexican history brought vividly to life. These films are different from what I typically would have sought out. However, that is one of my favorite aspects of being a film critic: experiencing things you wouldn’t otherwise make you a better person overall. It gives you a window into worlds you would never have seen, and I loved this journey.

Let’s get things rolling with USERS (2021); I had previously screened this film several months ago as a separate project (link above.) Here, Almada dips her brush into a palette of technology-driven dilemmas. The ever-changing face of maternal bonds in our tech-savvy age is unraveled. Amidst this tech narrative, the heartbeat of a bustling Mexican city finds its rhythm. Though occasionally the story might throw a curveball or two, the visual imagery and powerful score ensure you're in for a journey you won’t soon forget.

Shifting the reel, TODO LO DEMÁS (EVERYTHING ELSE) (2016) offers a contrasting narrative. Following Doña Flor, a regular worker government office clerk tangled in the threads of daily routine, we see the shades of her life slowly evolving. Her journey lets her escape the perceived reality of invisibility, showing a much larger world of who she is and why that matters.

Moving along to EL VELADOR (2011), the ambiance is serene. Set against a cemetery's quiet backdrop, Martin, the night watchman, dominates the frame as a larger-than-life yet average person. Almada's directorial choice shines here, opting for nuance over graphic portrayals, hinting at the profound impact of unseen violence—the picturesque backdrops of extravagant mausoleums of Mexico's most notorious Drug Lords. This is a film that I just couldn’t process the idea of, and I ended up loving the experience in the end.

Then there's EL GENERAL (2009). Here, we're treated to an immersive experience, a dive into the annals of President Plutarco Elias Calles' life. Almada crafts a mosaic of time, where echoes of the past converse with the present, tying personal tales to a historical framework. These stories that seem so specific are turned into journeys that everyone can find some relation in. These aren’t tales that most know but human experiences that most can connect with.

Segueing into AL OTRO LADO (TO THE OTHER SIDE) (2005), our senses are treated to a symphony of corrido music (Mexico's 200-year-old tradition.) Through the eyes of the budding composer Magdiel, we're faced with life's pressing decisions. Be it the siren call of the life of “crime” or the risks of border crossings, Magdiel's life mirrors the societal problems many face. The sad irony is that this story is possibly more a mirror of today’s world than even in 2005.

Rounding off this cinematic spectacle is ALL WATER HAS A PERFECT MEMORY (2001). Delving deep into the chasms of personal loss, Almada crafts a touching eulogy to her sister, Ana Lynn. A mosaic of cherished family snippets and evocative visuals ensures a journey straight to the heart. She explores cultural differences between a North American mother and a Mexican father in the face of death.

In retrospect, Almada's cinematic offering resembles a canvas, where every stroke and color speaks volumes. In its distinctiveness, each film delves deep into the intricate dance between the personal and political realms. Almada’s celluloid tales beckon movie-goers from all walks of life to dive in, reflect, and be forever changed. Don’t judge books or movies by their covers; that’s a cliche, but it’s true. You never know what stories you’re missing out on!

The 5-disc DVD box set includes:
USERS (2021)
TODO LO DEMÁS (EVERYTHING ELSE) (2016)
EL VELADOR (2011)
EL GENERAL (2009)
AL OTRO LADO (TO THE OTHER SIDE) (2005)
ALL WATER HAS A PERFECT MEMORY (2001)

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[photo courtesy of ICARUS FILMS]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #WGA #SAGAFTRAStrong #WGAStrong