By Eydie Mendoza
A documentary filmed in Nicaragua, tells the story of a family who works and lives off the dumpsite in Managua. The children’s innocence is not gone. They play, laugh and get into mischief but they also work long hard hours.
In Clean Hands we see the world through the parent’s eyes, the children’s’ eyes and not just that of the camera.
Filmmaker Michael Dominic, a photo journalist was on assignment following bull riders and cockfighting when a friend suggested to go to the garbage dumps, but says, “I followed different subjects and on my third trip, I came across the family and they were at ease on the camera.”
Clean Hands Documentary (OFFICIAL TRAILER) from Broadway Bill Productions on Vimeo.
Dominic named the movie Clean Hands for many reasons, but mostly because Manos Limpias was the name of the trucking company at the dumps and the symbolism associated between clean hands and innocence.
When asked about sharing wisdom with aspiring documentary filmmakers, Dominic urges, “I always say … tell their story truthfully, the subject’s truth … as unmanipulated as possible and bring a lot of socks. You have to take care of yourself, protect your feet from moisture and blisters.”
This film is for the entire family. It’s a life altering experience filled with hope and inspiration. If you miss Clean Hands during Cinequest you can see it at the upcoming San Diego Latino Film Festival.