[Si] TV

• ‹ previous
• 52 of 62
• next ›

Let me begin by stating that this is generally a happy movie.  I spent the whole time biting my nails thinking something tragic would happen to the protagonists and I would have to slit my wrists.  So getting that anxiety out of your way, maybe you can sit back and enjoy.

The movie follows two brothers:  Tony and Evaristo from a Tahumara (Raramuri) community in Chihuahua, Mexico.  The brothers graduate sixth grade and are asked to deliver some medicine to a great uncle.  This leads to more adventures than necessary because of the mischievous brother Tony versus the younger obedient brother Evaristo.

I've never seen anything like Cochochi.  I know these indigenous communities exist and once in a while you see people around, but you have no idea how they live or what they're about.  Cochochi shows us a bit of their day to day experiences.  There's a radio channel where they communicate across the territory.  The different settlements tend to help each other out with no questions asked.  (I mean, two 10-12 year olds are wandering around Mexico by themselves.  Eep!)  A lot of the movie depicts sweeping panoramas making one want to pack up the camping gear and bug the people for a peek at their beautiful country. 

The Tahumara community of San Evangelio opened their doors to the production and agreed to take part in the film; none of the characters are professional actors.  You watch, listen and take it in.  While contemporary issues are raised, you are left do mull them over yourself.  And by the end, you want to pinch Evaristo's cheeks.  He's very magnetic for not being an actor.  I found it a natural glimpse into a Mexican community unknown to many and I'm very glad for the opportunity to have seen it!

Once again, I got to watch it through the Chicago Latino Film Festival.  I have no idea how to access this movie, but I include the imbd link below.  It’s not great, but it’s better than nuttin’.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0841017/