Y Tu Mama Tambien

American teenagers have a reputation for being self centered and being concerned only about what they want and this seemed to be the same in this film. The teenagers did not appear to have caring parents who spent time with them. Unlike the other films which showed the Hispanic culture to be very famiy oriented, this film showed teenagers to be very self oriented. They made many poor choices regarding promiscuious activity, drinking and drugs. They did not seem to have any concern for morals and even broke their manifesto. They seemed to care about "feeling good" and what pleasures were available for the moment. They seemed to get bored very easily and did not have any jobs or responsibilities over the summer. This seemed to allow them more freedom, to leave for several days looking for heavens mouth. This also lead to more trouble. Luisa was a difficult character to understand. The film talked about the quiz she took in a magazine which said she had morals and was independent. She was not described as independent when talking about the entertaining she and Jano did. She said she felt out of place with the conversations, and wanted to ask if they could name all the teeth in the correct order. I also wondered if she traveled with the teens because she was dying. It briefly mentioned the doctors office and at another part it showed her not really sleeping and said she was afraid. I found this movie very crude and difficult to watch.

Carol's Journey

Carol comes to Spain with her mother and seems very happy to see her grandfather. She smiles and seems to enjoy the outdoors. They are traveling on a horse and buggy when she meets a boy with a slingshot around his neck. She sees him shoot a bird with it and yells at him. He takes her hat. Later she tries to get it back and he teases her with it. At this time, Carol does not seem to be fitting in too well with the others, but later they become good friends and she saves him from being hit by some soldiers. Carol fights against the conventionalism in the culture by trying to teach one of the servants to read. She is very kind to her and talks to her. She wants to help her and becomes her friend. Carol seems to try to adapt to the culture by agreeing to make her First Communion, but fights the conventionalism there by not wearing the traditional white dress. Her loving grandfather seems to support this idea. I didn't understand too much about the living arrangements after her mom dies. I think whe went to live with some relatives, but begs her grandfather to take her back with him. Carol also misses her father who is a pilot. On her birthday he bravely flies by where her party is and drops off a gift for her. SHe is so excited, but starts to worry when shots are fired at the plane. Luckily he flies away unharmed. Her friends show they respect her and that she fits in by dressing up and coming to her party. Carol has many issues to deal with in the film, such as moving to a new country, her mom's death and worry about her dad. She gets a school teacher to help her send a letter to her father. She doesn't want to worry her father and doesn't want him to know about her mom's death. She knows the fighting and flying is hard on him. Carol is very caring toward her family and friends and I think this is part of the warm climate culture. She puts people above everything. SHe is willing to risk her life by yelling at soldiers to distract them and try to save her father and friend. She tries to help her servant learn and is most excited about her friends coming to her birthday and her fathers air visit. She doesn't seem to care about the gifts. She does carry a scrapbook that she likes and seems to treasure. She is quite a remarkable young lady.

Volver

This film is a tribute to women and their resilience, and was shown in many ways. I was amazed at the strength Paula showed in defending herself and stopping the rape. At the time, she thinks she has killed her father, but as we find out later her grandfather is also her father. Paula's mother Ramunida is also an amazing woman. She was raped by her father, but really loves the child that was a result of this rape. She also speaks so highly of the love she thought her parents shared. She claims that her mother died in the arms of the man she loved. Ramunida is also strong when she finds her husband dead on the kitchen floor. She cleans up the mess, protects her daughter and disposes of the body. She then sees an opportunity to make a living using her neighbors restaurant. She is very resourceful when she makes the first meal, borrowing food from friends. The restaurant is kept busy by the film crew. Ramundia's sister Sole is also quite strong and enterprising. She turns her home into a secret beauty salon to make a living.
The mother of Ramundia and Sole is an interesting character. She is portrayed as a ghost. Many people in the village see her and accept this because they believe she has come back to take care of unfinished business so she can rest in peace. Resting in peace is portrayed as very important. In the beginning of the film, women are seen cleaning the grave markers at a cemetery. The wind is blowing, which doesn't make this an easy task. They also clean their own grave sites and take pride in polishing it and making it look nice. Sole is afraid of dead people and does not want to go to her Aunt's funeral. Ramundia talks her into going and tells her to take a tranquilizer. The village people seem to have superstitions about graves and the dead who are seen as ghosts. Augustina feels strongly it is the ghost of Ramundia and Sole's mother that has told her of their Aunt's death. Augustina thinks of her own mother and how odd it seems that she disappeared the same day as the fire that killed Ramundia and Sole's parents. Even though she wants to know what happened, she is unable to talk about her suspicions on television. When SOle's mother is knocking on the trunk, Sole seems unsure if she is seeing a ghost, but is willing to help her mom and lets her live with her.
All of the women faced challenges, but they were strong and courageous in dealing with them.

Guantanamera

There were many aspects of Hispanic culture noted in this film. One aspect that shines through many of the films we have viewed is love. The great love Georgina and Candido have is powerful. After 50 years to finally be together again. They seem so happy and then tragedy strikes. It was so sad when Gerogina died, and I think their love was so strong that Candido seemed to carry that sadness with him. He showed it many times in the film, for example when he asked the driver Tony to turn off the radio. Candido said this is not the time for celebrating. I found it interesting that Candido died at the end of the movie. Many times in America, we hear people talk of their grandparents who when one dies and the other shortly after, the say it is of a broken heart. I think many people who are so saddened by the loss of a great love loose their will to live. Another aspect of the Hispanic culture is the machismo male again. Aldofo was a character that was difficult to like. He was argumentative throughout the film. The first time we see him, he is arguing to present his idea about sharing the body. He continues to be a strong minded character, as he tells everyone what to do. He tells his wife Gina that she should not wear a beautiful dress and insults her. He later beats her in the film and she doesn't seem to show that this is unusual or the first time. I think part of the Cuban culture we see is making use of their resources. We see men on the street selling garlic, which Tony the driver buys because people in Havannah will want it. Later we see him buying bananas. Kindly he shares them with the people in the car. Aldofo doesn't seem to care about stopping for food, just sharing the body and transferring the casket form hearse to hearse. When they are getting closer to Havannah, Tony has acquired a trunk full of items to sell. The Cuban government is shown as very controlling and powerful. Adolfo must have had a higher position and them been placed as a funeral director. One lady in the film commented that it must be difficult to have the position he had an now be a funeral director. It seems that even burial is controlled by the government.

The Official Story

I was struck early in the film by a comment made by Alecia when teaching the class. She said history is the memory of the people and that in order to survive people must have a memory. I think this sends a message of hope in that even though there may be some parts of history people do not enjoy learning about, hopefully we do learn from it and make better decisions in the future. I thought the marriage between Ana and Roberto became hopeless when he abused her. I hope she stays away from such a hurtful man. One who deliberately hurts one they love can not be trusted. Initially I thought there would be a light at the end of the tunnel for Gabby. She is an adorable 5 year old, who seems to know what she wants. For example, she did not care for the magician at her birthday party, so she went to her room to do something she enjoyed. Although she is frightened when the boys playing war come into her room, she seems to be easily consoled by the love and gentle rocking of Ana. Love is a very powerful emotion, which can help to heal many things. Originally I think the mothers who were rallying to find their missing children did this out of love. However, after further research on Wkipedia I think it has taken a different voice. I was reading and it said the white head scarves they wore were frequently had the names of the children on them. I remembered that in the movie and thought how sweet. Then I read further were it said the movement broke in to two groups and one of the scholars of the groups defended the airline hijackers on 9/11/01 and said they were courageous. This sickens me. I will never understand how anyone can call someone courageous who is deliberately hurting innocent people. Therefore I am now ambivalent as to the light at the end of the tunnel for Gabby. I think with love she has the power to heal, but if she is poisoned by hatred, negative people and revenge there is no hope.

Like Water for Chocolate

Like Water for Chocolate is a film with lots of magic realism in it. I saw lots of it in the food that was prepared and served in this movie. When Rosaura marries Pedro, Tita is helping make the wedding cake. Tita is so sad her tears fall in the cake. At the reception, the beautiful cake is served. Soon after, people are shown crying and then end up sick. Another food example showing the magic realism was the quail with rose petals. Pedro had given Tita roses for her first year as cook for him and the family. Tita's mother is quite upset and tells her to throw them out. Tita hears the voice of her friend Nacha telling her not to throw them out, but use them in the quail dish. Tita uses the roses and the movie explaines that this is how Tita gets inside Pedro and they use Tita's sister as a medium and a way for Tita and Pedro to be together. This shows quite a mix of the reality of wanting to be together and the magic of using the sister Gertrudis to find a way to enjoy each other. The third time I saw magic realism used in the food was the beef broth that was brought to Tita after her nephew had died. Tita was so sad and was not speaking. Many people thought she was crazy. Dr. Brown cared for her and had a friend Checa visit her. At this time she tells Tita the broth is magic and can cure her. Amazingly, after Tita eats some broth she talks and acts the same way she did before her nephew died. Food is so important in many cultures, and I found it quite interesting how it was used in this movie. I think even the title of the film gives us an indication that the food is an important aspect of this film. I understood it to be like water is used to make hot chocolate ( which is served in the film) love is necessary for your soul to achieve its destiny.

Motorcycle Diaries

One of the first scenes that I think helped prepare Ernesto Guevara to be a revolutionary leader was when they fell off the motorcycle and found the puppy. He picked up the puppy and wanted to care for the helpless animal. Later when he gives the puppy to his girlfriend, I think it shows that he wants it to have a good home and knows the best place is not with him. Another scene is when he looks at the neck of the farmer. Alberto is telling the farmer that Ernesto is a doctor and can help him. Ernesto honestly tells the farmer that it is a tumor and he should see a specialist. Alberto tells Ernesto he should have said they would help so they could have food and a place to stay. Ernesto says, " help him with what prayers?" I won't lie at the price of someones health. Ernesto was honest and wouldn't compromise the health of the farmer for food and a place to stay. A third scene which helps shape him as a leader was when he was called to help an elderly woman. He asks if she has eaten and gives some pills for her to take. When he examines her he makes eye contact and is very compassionate throughout his assessment. In a letter to his mother he stated he knew he really couldn't help her. The fourth scene was when they were walking in the desert and met another man and lady walking. They were talking about the land that was their grandfathers that they got kicked off, and how they had to leave their son. They were looking for work in the mines. Ernesto, we find out later, gave them the money from his girlfriend. Ernesto also gives them his blanket. In the morning, people come and choose people that are on rocks to work at the mine. Ernesto tells the mining workers the people are thirsty and is ignored, he thows a rock at the truck. In a letter to his mother, he writes about peoples eyes that darken with tragedy and how their friends disappear. He describes it as the coldest night of his life. There are many more scenes that help shape him as a leader, but one of my favorites was his birthday. He was so touched by the thoughtfulness of the people and how they really wanted to make his birthday special.

Mujeres al Borde de un Ataque de Nervous

This film portrayed many relationships. In the beginning of the film, it shows one of the main characters (Ivan) walking by many women and to each of them he is making comments about relationships. Some of the comments he makes are"I'm all yours" and "Will you marry me?". I think this shows an element of what some would call a "Macho Man." He uses words he thinks women want to hear in his relationships, but doesn't seem to sincerely mean them. Pepa noticed this when she talked about finally getting him to admit he didn't love me. Although, the women also seemed quite flirtatious and interested in the relationship of the moment, not a lasting one. I think Camella portrayed this best. She was involved with the terrorists, and then interested in Ivan's son. The women seemed to feel important when flirting with a man, and it seemed something they did without thinking about it. They seemed to naturally flirt with all men. I think some of the feelings were over reacted in the film. The way everyone was having a crisis, but only their own was important. When Camella wanted to talk to Pepa about her problem and Pepa kept putting Camella's problem aside. She didn't say lets sit down and talk or even want to take the time to hear about it, Pepa said everyone has problems and then focused on her own.
I think there are many differences. Today's American women have more self value and do not think that if you have a relationship with a man you are more valued. I think they are more interested in a sincere relationship, not just a relationship.
If the context were the United States, I don't think the animals would have been in the apartment and if there were animals it would have been a cat or dog. I think the women would have been more interested in taking their anger out on Ivan, instead of things. I don't think they would have thrown the phone, but used it to find revenge.
The film plot was somewhat confusing for me. From the priest giving the advice do not trust men, to the many characters and their relationships. I found it necessary to be very attentive to try to follow how was who and how they interacted. Although, I do think relationships can be difficult at times, this movie didn't seem to have a sincere relationship in it.
I think there is a difference between Spanish America and Spanish Europe women. Although I think both portray some of the hot climate culture characteristics that we discussed in class, I think they also asorb some of the culture traits where they live. They look at other women, how they act and are treated and want this for themself.

Machuca

In the film Machuca the friendship between Pedro and Gonzalo is quite surprise because of their many differences. At recess when the bully takes Gonzalo's sandwich, Gonzalo is very passive and doesn't say much he just seems to accept that this is the way things are. The bully then tells Pedro he wasn't his desk back and Pedro says no and doesn't back down. He even tells the classmate to talk to Fr. McEnroe if he doesn't like it. They are also from very different homes. Gonzalo's home has many things, but a very scattered family. Pedro's home has many people, but not too many things. Gonzalo seems quite surprised when the restroom is an outhouse. However, in spite of their differences, they seem to find things they like to do together. Both seem to enjoy selling flags at the rallies. Both seem to enjoy bike riding, sweetened condensed milk, and spending time together. Gonzalo's father is quite rude and does not seem to understand the friendship. Pedro's family seems quite welcoming. Although they are friends, the struggles of communism and militarism make it difficult for the friendship to continue. It was heartbreaking to see the military take over shantytown and kill Sylvania.
There were many differences between the rich and poor in the movie. The rich had beautiful homes and many things. They did not seem to want for anything. Pedro was amazed at the amount of clothes Gonzalo had in his closet. Gonzalo seemed to take the clothes for granted. The poor did not have nice homes or many things, however they seemed to be very hardworking. They worked together as a community. Even when there was blending of the rich and poor it was still easy to tell who came from what class. I was surprised that Pedro and his friends did not wear the same uniform at St. Patricks that everyone else wore.
There are many messages in this film. One that really strikes me is about prejudice. People in the film, and still today use things to make judgements about people. People are judged by the clothing they wear, and how they look. Later people may notice others actions or words, but have usually formed an opinion of that person before they have even spoken to them. People within a certain group will also make judgements about those in their group and those in another group. I found it interesting when Ft. McEnroe was speaking to those in the church they seemed more interested in placing blame than working things out. The adults certainly weren't treating each other with dignity or respect, so I guess it isn't too surprising that the children treat each other the same way. I think compassion and caring are skills that need to be learned by example and reinforced throughout our lives. I found it scary that an entire group of people could just disappear when the military took over.
I think many of the social issues and cultural differences shown in the film are still relevant today. There are still bullies, prejudice and people who do not seem to treat anyone with respect.

The use of Parallelism: La Misma Luna

This movie tells the story of a nine year old boy and his mother who live on opposite sides of the border. The mother tells her son to look at the moon when he misses her, and she will be looking at the same moon. The son is living with his grandmother and after she dies, he goes on quite an adventure to find his mother. This brave young man starts out angry and wondering if his mother really loves him. He has many struggles to make it to his mother. However, he learns from a very unlikely character, that the reason she left is because she loves him and wants a better life for him. His mother is struggling to make enough money to become a citizen and bring her son to live with her. She works many jobs, such as, cleaning houses and making dresses to make as much money as possible. She is tempted to marry to gain citizenship, but discovers the only reason she can marry is for love. It is such a joyous moment at the end of the movie when the mother and son are reunited.