Italian
A revolutionary tale: ‘Mexico 86’ and the sacrifices of activism
A director’s personal touch
Guatemalan-born director César Diaz, known for his 2019 Camera d’Or win with “Our Mothers,” delves deep into his past to present a gripping and heartfelt portrayal of an activist’s inner struggles in his latest film, “Mexico 86”. Premiering at Locarno’s Piazza Grande on August 10, the film stars Academy Award nominee Bérénice Béjo, renowned for her role in “The Artist,” as the resolute revolutionary Maria.
The story of Maria
“Mexico 86” follows Maria, a fierce activist who rebels against an oppressive regime and faces the dire consequences of her unwavering dedication. Her journey takes her to exile in Mexico, where she grapples with the complexities of her relationship with her uprooted adolescent son, Marco, played by Matheo Labbé. The narrative pays homage to those brave enough to fight for a brighter future, despite the personal sacrifices involved.
A personal connection
Bérénice Béjo, born in Buenos Aires, brings a unique perspective to her role. Her parents fled Argentina during her childhood, a background that resonates deeply with the film’s themes. Béjo reflects on how this personal history helped her understand and portray Maria’s character. ”Having an Argentine family that left because of the dictatorship helped me to work on my role, to try to understand the things that my mother didn’t tell me, that my father didn’t tell me,” she shares.
A layered portrayal
While not entirely autobiographical, Diaz’s own experiences with a mother deeply involved in activism parallel Marco’s story. Diaz chose to write the script from Maria’s point of view, offering a nuanced portrayal that evokes both admiration and criticism. “The truth is, if you put yourself in the child’s shoes, the only thing you ask of her is to be a mom. That was just what I didn’t want to do,” Diaz explains.
The maternal struggle
Béjo, also a mother, grappled with the script’s depiction of the difficult balance between maternal instincts and a broader humanitarian vision. “I think having to choose between your child and fighting for an idea of democracy, of freedom, is very difficult,” she muses. The film explores the tension between personal and political commitments, highlighting the sacrifices made by those who prioritize a greater cause.
Frantic scenes and unsung heroes
The film’s scenes are intense, capturing the anxiety and isolation experienced by the characters. Maria emerges as an unsung hero, her life’s work often overshadowed by the contributions of men in the movement. Diaz breaks the mold of the traditional maternal figure, presenting Maria as a complex character who defies expectations.
A distant relationship
To convey the strained relationship between Maria and Marco, Diaz kept the actors separated before filming. This decision resulted in a palpable and natural void between them onscreen, enhancing the authenticity of their interactions. The film’s chronological shooting further deepened this sense of distance.
A fight worth the struggle
“Mexico 86″ centers on an uphill battle, portraying the personal upheaval that comes with activism. Diaz comments, “This film resonates with our modern struggles. It questions what we put at stake in order to transform the society in which we live, how far we’re willing to commit ourselves, willing to give something to be able to see a transformation.”
A tribute to courage
Béjo adds, “You have to have a lot of courage to dedicate your life to others, not everyone can do it. So, we have to thank the people who do, thank goodness there are those people. Everybody doesn’t have that courage. That’s just the way the world is, isn’t it? Everyone has their own story, their own destiny.”
“Mexico 86” is a powerful exploration of the sacrifices made by those who fight for a better world. It challenges viewers to reflect on their own commitments and the broader impact of their actions. For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Mexico 86.
Note: This article is enriched with personal reflections and in-depth analysis to provide a comprehensive perspective on the film “Mexico 86.” The narrative style and structure have been innovatively crafted to engage cinema and TV series enthusiasts.
