by Eydie Mendoza
(United States Premier) Mexico in Spanish and Yoreme Nokki with English subtitles
El Corazón de Mezquite (Mezquite’s Heart) is a film filled with magic and wonder, masterfully done by Director Ana Laura Calderón.
Mayrin Buitimea debuts a mild mannered but willful Lucia, who unintentionally challenges cultural traditions by wanting to be a yoreme harpera (harpist).
Lucia is adventurous and innocent and lives with her grandparents and father in El Júpare, Sonora. Her father and grandfather are harpists and, naturally, Lucia dreams about playing the harp. It’s in her bloodline but it’s been a man’s job for generations.
Lucia fantasizes about playing and volunteers to play at the upcoming “konti” celebration but her classmates mock her for suggesting it.
It’s never easy to step out of cultural norms and traditions especially when they are intertwined with gender roles. Calderón does a great job in telling the story by balancing the preservation and pride of the ancient ways with Lucia’s desire to follow her passion.
Remember being young, adventurous and innocent, where you could touch the stars at night? Calderón takes us there. Enjoy the Yorema music and the beautiful backdrop of Sonora, Mexico.
Don’t miss El Corazón de Mezquite (Mezquite’s Heart) and bring the family.
Cinequest film screenings:
- Wed, March 4 at 9:15 pm Redwood City Century 20
- Thur, March 5 at 11:00 am 3 Below Theaters in San Jose
- Sun, March 8 at 9:15 am Hammer Theatre in San Jose
Click here to get your tickets.