The Mexican Dream

Even though I didn't really understand the point that the film was trying to make, I still recognize that the film is moving and shows great promise and talent. Also, a caveat: just because I was not able to grasp the concept/theme of the movie, that in no way detracts from the clarity of the movie itself, since I think it may just be "me" that prevents me from truly understanding the film. The animation was fun and the cinematography was beautiful, and I enjoyed "The Mexican Dream" despite its not being my usual movie fare. At various points throughout my viewing of it I thought someone was going to be shot or something dangerous and violent was going to occur, but the film surprised me in being moving without having to resort to themes of violence or sex. I was touched by the adoring family that Ajileo left behind, and also felt pity for him, since he felt he had to basically lie to his family about how he was actually doing in America. Additionally, "The Mexican Dream" draws up intriguing contrasts and comparisons to the famed American dream, and poses questions about what it means to be Mexican and hopeful in the United States.

Director Milos Forman once said that "Everyone is from two countries: their own and the United States." It's no surprise that people the world over identify with the American Dream, seeing as the global pop culture machine reproduces images of an ideal America. In this celluloid utopia, few problems exist, wealth abounds and life is easy.

In The Mexican Dream, Hernandez contrasts Ajileo's dreams of life on the other side with the reality of being an immigrant. This opposition finds expression throughout, but perhaps most eloquently in an extended sequence early in the film. The image shifts to a top/bottom split screen, the top showing Hollywood Boulevard and the bottom Ajileo and the coyote still in Mexico. On top, a disappointed Ajileo scans the famous names on the Hollywood Stars. At bottom, Ajileo asks the coyote about getting acting roles in Hollywood to which the latter responds: "The only role you are going to play is... The Super Washing Man! You are gonna be washing cars, washing dishes, washing gringos' asses!"

As his calling card, The Mexican Dream tells us a lot about what kinds of movies Hernandez would like to make. His short has humor and charm, a good story and a social critique to boot. But you'll never confuse The Mexican Dream with art cinema. Hernandez wants to make movies that matter, but that appeal to large numbers of people. His vision doesn't run counter to Hollywood's, but instead speaks to the best things in it.

Rather than shun entertainment value, he embraces it, but adds that making audiences reflect on his work makes it more worthwhile. As entertainment and food for thought, The Mexican Dream makes a mighty good start.

The short film touched upon several issues pertinent to the Latin American immigrants and their culture. Specifically, it depicted the struggle of a man trying to overcome the obstacle created by the Mexican border with the US and the reality that many immigrants faced when they were able to get to the other side. The short film, though I wouldn't call a comedy, also incorporated an ancient folktale about the llorona which added an unexpected twist to the story. The movie clearly showed the inevitable reality that many immigrants are forced to see when they come to the US and how fulfilling the "American Dream" is not as attainable as the contrary belief. The movie was interesting nonetheless. It focused on the story of an illegal immigrant which I think it could find the heart of those who have gone through similar situations. I honestly was very intrigued by the movie because of its atypical plot and the incorporation of the llorona.

This movie is a must see! It is even more comical if you don't have to read the subtitles to keep up (I'm not a fan of subtitles). The writing, directing, and acting are of outstanding quality. I can't wait to see what Mr. Director comes up with next! The use of "La Llorona" as support and comedic value is genius! Alijeo's experience as an immigrant is common experience no matter where it is you or your family immigrated from. If it was done illegally you'll understand it perfectly. Speaking of Alijeo, his character was played with such emotion you believe the actor actually went through that situation. Everyone can laugh with this movie, especially immigrants who laugh at their experience once the fear of crossing to the "greener side" has passed.

Short and clever, I thought the film was pretty good. It never led me to the question of: so what's the point? as many other short films have conditioned me to ask, as many either practically serve you a message on a silver platter without expecting you to pick up on subtle humor and nuances that reveal the purpose of the film...while some only hold a special meaning to the creator and make no sense to me. I say that the film was clever because the idea is something I've never heard of before: presenting an account of an immigrant crossing the border as a comedy. The film was well-done and the infusion of Mexican culture through the use the enigma "la llorona" was poignant.