Becoming Eduardo

Few films in recent memory surprised me as much as "Becoming Eduardo." Set and shot in southwestern New Mexico, the film is several cuts above your typical coming of age movie. "Becoming Eduardo" not only stuns the senses it also engages the intellect. Superficially the story of a high school age Hispanic boy growing up in the world of poverty and drug violence of rural New Mexico, the film rises far above its humble setting. Director Rod McCall skillfully contrasts the beauty of rural New Mexico with the drab lives of those trapped by their situations. The fast paced money and power world of the drug dealers overshadows the lives of the workers and students. Eduardo's life options are mirrored against those of his mother (played by the always excellent Elizabeth Pena) who was forced to settle for what was rather than pursue what-might-be. We've seen all of these elements before, but McCall manages to mix them up in a fresh format that captures the pain of someone struggling with their surrounding while avoiding the usual preachy film clichés. In doing so, McCall produced in "Become Eduardo" a film you'll want to see and see again.

BECOMING EDUARDO touches deeply with this beautifully well-written coming of age story set in rural New Mexico. Julian Alcaraz breathes life into LouAnn Johnson's character "Eddie" while strong leads A. Martinez and Elizabeth Pena contribute with stellar performances. Newcomers Mike Dunay and Elizabeth Blanco's breakout roles are well balanced with Gary Perez, Josh Cruze, Holly Riddle and Paula Sorge all supporting. The scenery, music and art of New Mexico are richly woven in this visual tapestry through the eyes of Director Rod McCall. Featuring local talent from Alma de Arte in Las Cruces - BECOMING EDUARDO is a a festival darling, that continues to inspire all who see it.

I was one of the lucky folks who got a ticket to see this beautiful film at the Burbank Film Festival. Writer / Director Rod McCall's poignant coming of age story was a pitch perfect performance by an amazing cast and left me ready for another offering from this masterful scribe and helmer. He and Producer Brad Littlefield assembled a great team and were very gracious to all who were there. In this day and age when studios can't make a good film with millions of dollars, it's so nice to see a true independent film that was made with blood and sweat equity. I recently saw that the film had distribution and was so excited. Run don't walk to get a copy of this great little film. Becoming Eduardo is an honest look at a unique culture and what it takes to rise above it's shackles of stereotyping. I love this movie.