2024-10-26 06:56:00
MORELIA, Mexico (AP) — “Sujo” became the top winner at the Morelia International Film Festival (FICM) on Friday night, reaffirming its status as Mexico’s possible Oscar nominee.
Fernanda Valadez and Astrid Rondero’s film follows the son of a killer as he seeks a different future years after his father’s death. story, which won the Best Mexican Feature Film, Best Director and Best Screenplay awards at the 22nd FICM.
“‘Sujo’ tells the story of an orphan coming of age in this country, a story we all know is both wonderful and terrifying,” Landreaux said. “For Fernanda and me, seeing reality through the eyes of this young man, Sujo, is actually the greatest gift we have ever received (…) No one should resolve to violence, and this is what we believe ”.
Landero and Valadez co-directed and produced the films “Calm Waters,” “400 Suitcases,” “No Special Signs” and “Our Darkest Days.” “Sujo,” their first film together as directors, is dedicated to Mexico’s violent orphans.
“We finally did it,” Landero said when accepting the directing award. “What a luxury it is to be rewarded for the immense joy of co-directing.”
Diana Laura Di Dedicates Best Actress Award to All People Affected by Eating Disorders and Addiction for Film ‘Butterflies’ About a Punk Singer’s Abuse by Police, and Victims of armed conflict.
He said: “To all those whose lives have been taken away by a war that does not give them a chance to continue living, no water, no food, no right to live, no justice, no dreams or hopes.”
Dee’s speech was not the only one speaking out against the war. Outside the Ocampo Theater, where the ceremony was held, a group of demonstrators protested against the war in Gaza.
“The Whole Man,” starring Andrés Revo, about an upper-class high school student who suppresses his interest and desire for another boy, triggering a series of fatal events, won the best actor award.
“I am happy to dedicate this award to all the victims of the sexist violence discussed in the film, to the diverse people, and to the men who demand this kind of masculinity from our society,” Levo said, who also dedicated the award. Verónica Toussaint, a Mexican who had a small role in the film and died in May.
Director Edgar Nitto’s film “The Fisherman’s Tale,” about a strange legend in the lake in Michoacan state where the festival is held, received an honorable mention.
Tzotzil filmmaker Ana Ts’uyeb won Best Mexican Documentary for “Li Cham,” which follows the relationship between a mother and daughter influenced by the Zapatista movement and fighting for their land and independence. . Ts’uyeb delivered a speech in the Tzotzil language after receiving the award.
“I’m elated for this news, for this award,” he said, translating into Spanish. Additionally, he thanked the festival for “opening the door to our films from an Aboriginal narrative perspective.”
Venezuelan director Juan Vicente Manrique’s “Looking for a Donkey,” which blends comedy and political reflection, won the award in the documentary short category. Co-editor Alan Oeph read a message from Manrique, who was not in attendance because he was in Colombia, filming his first feature film.
“This short film is a direct condemnation of censorship and authoritarianism in our country,” Off read. “It’s a story about two Venezuelan firefighters who were imprisoned for recording a donkey as if it were Nicolás Maduro (…) but the donkey is a hard-working, gentle, intelligent animal, so I I absolutely do not agree with this aggressive comparison authoritarianism”.
Drama film “Impronta” directed by Michoacán director Rafael Martínez-García; created by Yareni Velázquez Mendoza His animated short “The Black Spot,” and “Spiritum,” a novel based on Adolfo Margulis’s experiences as a young man in a rehabilitation center, also won awards.
Gabriela Domínguez Ruvalcaba’s “Formas de traverse un land” receives the La Moussa Award from the Women in Film and Television Association for the best film directed by a female filmmaker Documentary.
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Interview with Fernanda Valadez and Astrid Rondero, Co-Directors of “Sujo”
Interviewer: Congratulations on the success of “Sujo” at the Morelia International Film Festival! Winning Best Mexican Feature Film, Best Director, and Best Screenplay is an incredible achievement. How does it feel to receive this recognition?
Fernanda Valadez: Thank you! It feels overwhelming in the best way possible. We poured our hearts into this project, and to have it acknowledged by the festival is truly a dream come true. This is not just an award for us; it’s a recognition of the stories we want to tell.
Astrid Rondero: Absolutely. The success of “Sujo” reflects the struggles and resilience of many in our society. It’s an honor to have our work resonate with both the audience and the judges.
Interviewer: Can you tell us more about the story behind “Sujo” and why it was important for you to tell this particular narrative?
Valadez: “Sujo” is a deeply personal story that follows a young man grappling with his identity and past as he tries to carve out a better future. Growing up in the shadow of violence is a reality for many youth in Mexico, and we wanted to shed light on their experiences.
Rondero: It’s a coming-of-age story that emphasizes the importance of choice, hope, and the refusal to succumb to violence. We believe these stories are vital for healing and understanding in our country.
Interviewer: The festival was marked by powerful speeches, particularly from Diana Laura Di, who dedicated her Best Actress Award to victims of war and violence. How did the atmosphere of the festival, including the protests outside, influence your experience?
Valadez: The atmosphere was intense and emotional. Art reflects reality, and the issues raised during the festival, including the protests, bring to the forefront the very themes we explore in our film. It’s a reminder that there’s a broader context to our stories.
Rondero: Yes, it reinforces the idea that we are not just storytellers but participants in a larger conversation about violence, justice, and humanity. We want our film to contribute to that discourse.
Interviewer: What’s next for you both after this significant recognition? Are there any future projects on the horizon?
Valadez: We’re definitely motivated to continue telling impactful stories. We’re already brainstorming ideas for our next collaboration.
Rondero: We hope to explore more narratives that resonate with societal issues, especially ones that reflect the voices of marginalized communities.
Interviewer: Thank you, Fernanda and Astrid, for your insights and for sharing your powerful work with us. Congratulations once again on your achievements!
Valadez & Rondero: Thank you! We appreciate your support!
D violence. How do you think your film aligns with this sentiment expressed during the festival?
Valadez: Diana’s speech was profoundly moving and reflects the harsh realities faced by many in our society. “Sujo” aligns with this sentiment because it also addresses the impact of violence on individuals and communities. We believe that art can be a powerful platform for change, and through our film, we aim to not only tell a story but also to spark conversations about these pressing issues.
Rondero: Exactly. We hope that “Sujo” resonates with those who have been affected by violence, offering them a sense of understanding and solidarity. It’s crucial to highlight the human experience behind these tragedies – that behind every statistic, there’s a story.
Interviewer: The film focuses on youth and their struggles. What message do you hope that young viewers take away from “Sujo”?
Valadez: We want young viewers to feel that they are not alone in their struggles. It’s important for them to understand that despite the challenges they face, there is always a choice to pursue a different path. Empowerment lies in recognizing one’s potential for change.
Rondero: And we want them to know that it’s okay to seek help and to dream of a better future. Resilience is born from hope, and we believe strongly in the transformative power of storytelling.
Interviewer: what are your thoughts on the growing representation of Mexican stories in cinema, especially in festivals like Morelia?
Valadez: It’s incredibly encouraging to see more Mexican narratives being recognized and celebrated. We have a wealth of stories, cultures, and experiences that deserve to be told. Festivals like Morelia play a vital role in providing a platform for these voices.
Rondero: Yes, and as filmmakers, we feel a responsibility to share these authentic stories that reflect our realities while also challenging stereotypes. The more we focus on diverse Mexican narratives, the more connected we become as a society.
Interviewer: Thank you, Fernanda and Astrid, for sharing your insights with us. We look forward to seeing “Sujo” touch more hearts and inspire future conversations.
Valadez and Rondero: Thank you for having us!
