Hola Mexican Film Festival

Reviewed by Regina Su
I awaited the opening of the Mexican Film festival with bated breath. Many of us were stood in line, our yellow wrist bands signified us as espanol supporters. We shifted from foot to foot awaiting entry into Mariachi Gringo in Cinema 9.
I do not speak Spanish, amigos.
Upon walking into the cinema we were greeted by a spotlit Mexican gentleman strumming a harp-looking instrument with calm harmonies, talented fingers and slow Spanish serenading. I’ve not a clue what this traditional Mariachi was singing, but I felt it was deeply romantic, a love song just for me. He greeted us with something in Spanish, Buenos Noches, I think, then told us he had a lot of Mexican feelings, of pride and the like. He then proceeded to entertain us with a traditional version of La Bamba. He then sung a song called The King and the Spanish ladies in the audience echoed back and the men shouted ‘Arriba, Arriba!’ Behind him, flashed advertisements for SBS and Mexican tequila and restaruants. Yes, I am being successfully wooed into the South-American community and their welcoming arms and warm and spiced.
The Mexican film festival is running for the 7^th consecutive year and is sporting the slogan ‘Adios CLiches; Hola Mexico!’ as it endeavours to promote all Mexican voices and perspectives, in an attempt to dub out clichés and stereotypes.
Live Mariachi bands, traditional music and a stellar film line-up, this festival promises only the best in entertainment.
The film itself, Mariachi Gringo, was very rich in life, emotion and reality and it showed a Mexican culture I was not familiar with seeing commercially. I absolutely recommend this experience for everyone, of any age or agenda. The festival isn’t on for long, so make the most of it while you can. Although the films shown change every day, I guarantee your experience will be just as beneficial as mine, as you either view a distant culture with different lenses, or embrace your familiar home with welcoming arms.

For more information, please visit: http://www.holamexicoff.com/ for times, venues, pricings and films.