HOLA MEXICO FILM FESTIVAL
Touted as the largest tribute to Mexican film in the world, the Hola Mexico Film Festival blazes into Sydney this week with more surprises than a gaily-coloured piñata and more pep than the diminutive Speedy Gonzalez. Featuring 20 films and documentaries by some of Mexico’s most audacious and relevant auteurs, the festival (now in its fifth year) will captivate audiences with new insights into the country’s rich culture and filmic sensibilities. “Mexican films are unique in that they are very raw,” explains festival director Samuel Douek, a Mexican-Australian, “There is a sense of reality that isn’t often found in the mainstream film industry and this year’s festival has some very strong Mexican stories.” In addition, film-buffs and Mexican expats alike are encouraged to bond over food, drink and music at the opening and closing night fiestas and to participate in Q&A sessions with critically acclaimed director Carlos Carrera (The Crime of Father Amaro). Highlights include Camera d’Or winner Leap Year, an admirably risqué story about a young journalist who alleviates her loneliness through increasingly disturbing sexual encounters; and Presumed Guilty, a documentary about Mexico’s flawed judicial system, which Douek counts amongst his favourites. “It’s going to drive anyone crazy,” he says, “It took me on a ride that not even Star Wars could match.” Strap on your sombreros!
Nov 4–14, Dendy Newtown & Dendy Opera Quays, $12.50-70, 9550 5699 (Newtown), 9247 3800 (Opera Quays), holamexicoff.com
