Immigration documentaries reveal the real stories behind a controversial issue that has polarized the United States as well as many other countries around the globe. Through film, both immigration experts and novices can delve deeper into how these issues affect daily life. Although proponents and opponents of immigration may not agree on the best policies to handle immigration, both sides can relate to the struggles of the human condition that shine in these documentaries.
The following immigration films were featured in the 2009 Cine Las Americas International Film Festival. Though they all center around immigration, each director's vision creates a diverse perspective. The filmmakers' backgrounds range from Mexican, Venezuelan, American and Mexican-American.
Shopping to Belong, Directed by Irene Sosa
This short 30-minute documentary explores a unique view of immigration that is not often talked about - the fact that many Latino immigrants feel compelled to shop in order to feel accepted. Consumerism has long been a key cultural activity in the United States, giving immigrants who already feel out of place a bigger need to feel accepted.
Ánimas Perdidas or Lost Souls, Directed by Monika Navarro
Ánimas Perdidas or Lost Souls began as a story about deportation, but turned into a personal family story about addictions and how they tear families apart. In 1999, two of the director's uncles were deported from the US to Mexico.
Shortly after the deportation, one of her uncle's overdosed and died in a Tijuana hotel. His body was buried in a mass grave with other unclaimed bodies or lost souls. After that family tragedy, her other uncle was left to fight his addictions alone and find a way to survive in Mexico.
The Other Side of Immigration, Directed by Roy Germano
This film explores immigration from the Mexican countryside. The Other Side of Immigration shows how policies affect the lives of many people who, because of lack of job opportunities, are forced to migrate to the United States. The film aims to enlighten viewers who know little about immigration and want to learn more. The director's academic background helps simplify this controversial and complicated issue.
Mi Vida Dentro or My Life Inside, Directed by Lucía Gajá
A brilliantly done Mexican documentary allows viewers to understand the realities of Mexican immigrants in the United States, especially those in the criminal justice system. The film follows the life of Rosa, a Mexican immigrant who comes to Austin, Texas, searching for a better life.
Instead, in 2003, she is arrested for suspicion of murder. Aside from Rosa's case, viewers get a sneak peak of what life is like for Mexican immigrants living in the Texas capital.
