Going Varsity in Mariachi

Going Varsity in Mariachi was lovingly welcomed in its Texas Premiere at the SXSW Film Festival. This is the story of kids from a poor community trying to find themselves in a musical form that epitomizes their Hispanic heritage. They are also using it as an opportunity to escape poverty and access higher education. Folks in the theater were tearing up as they watched this beautiful film.

The story is a simple one and sometimes those make the best films. As an educator, I loved the hard work and dedication of their teacher. The students faced a variety of challenges that are typical of young people - mostly seniors - trying to find their place in the world. They are struggling to prioritize as they transition from children to young adults. The film takes us through their year of struggles and Mariachi competitions with all of its ups-and-downs. Sometimes simple straight-forward stories are the best. This is a very enjoyable film that tells an uplifting tale of education in Texas at a time when public education and educators are under attack. Highly recommended.