Past Events

In a bustling Mexican household, seven-year-old Sol is swept up in a whirlwind of preparations for the birthday party for her father, Tona, led by her mother, aunts and other relatives. As the day goes on, building to an event both anticipated and dreaded, Sol begins to understand the gravity of the celebration this year and watches as her family does the same. This poignant and emotionally expansive film from Lila Avilés cements her skill at directing dynamic, ensemble performances in her stunning sophomore effort. Totem was Mexico’s entry to the 2023 Oscar competition for best foreign feature.

Marcelo has devoted his life to teaching philosophy at the Public University. When his mentor Professor Caselli unexpectedly dies, he hopes to become the new head of Department. However, his plans shift when charismatic and seductive colleague Rafael returns from his pedestal in European universities to claim the vacant position for himself. Marcelo's clumsy efforts to prove he is the right candidate will trigger a philosophical duel, while his life -and the country- enter a spiral of chaos.

Lola enjoys a happy life with her partner, Bruno, until an unexpected pregnancy revolutionizes her plans. Although she has always been clear that being a mother is not for her, she now feels challenged by social expectations and faces her inner fears. During the three days they have to wait until her appointment at the clinic, Lola approaches her friends and family with the intention of reaffirming her decision. Bruno had never imagined himself as a father either. Until now. "Mamifera tackles... a complicated, often excruciating, sometimes beautiful topic with grace, humor, and easily relatable characters." (The Austin Chronicle).

For over 300 years, the country we know today as Mexico was the meeting point of Indigenous ingredients and traditions, and products from European and Asian trade routes, producing a strong gastronomic culture. In 2010, UNESCO designated Mexican food as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. For the first time ever, a gastronomic culture was to be protected and elevated to the same level as art or science. Exploring through past and present, and told from the point of view of culinary experts, anthropologists and traditional cooks, The Michoacan File explains the origin, history and impact of Mexican food in modern society.

Note: PLUS: conversation and Q&A about Mexican food with Israel Alvarez Molina, Chef and owner of MAiiZ Nixtamal Tortilleria and Eatery, and MariaElena Cuervo-Lorens, author of two cookbooks on Mexican food.