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Por Mi Hija is a gripping, evocative film; it does its part to encourage dialogue about immigration and the journeys of illegal immigrants to the U.S. while greatly entertaining audiences. The film's cinematography further enhances the engaging storyline.
Por Mi Hija follows Leo (Christopher Bustos) and Emma (Daniela Vidaurre), a newlywed couple from the small town of Jalostotitlán, Mexico. Leo's friend helps him get a job in Fresno, California, and the two head north as illegal immigrants to start a new life. Soon they must confront the reality that their new life in America isn't all that it's cut out to be.
The acting, cinematography, and storyline of the film all come together to make Por Mi Hija a unique experience. The film jumps back and forth in time, using color and light to indicate these shifts. Director Fernando Rodriguez ensured this isn't disorienting to audiences; rather, he keeps viewers interested throughout the hour-long feature film. Rodriguez also wrote the script, which contains a melodious mix of Spanish (about 90%) and English (about 10%). Bustos, Vidaurre, and young Luciana Elisa Quiñonez, who plays the character of the same name, deliver their lines with beautiful conviction. Their eyes speak just as they do, and their body language syncs up perfectly with the mood of the scene. The cinematography is remarkable as well; especially towards the beginning and during tense scenes—the use of light and framing of scenes adds layers to the film.
Por Mi Hija promotes staying together despite difficulties, taking risks, never running from challenges, and, at its heart, the film's all about empathy: empathy for immigrants, yes, but also for all those around you. Por Mi Hija contains racism, blood, slight profanity, and alcohol.
I give Por Mi Hija 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 13 to 8, plus adults. By Eshaan M., KIDS FIRST!
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
03/31/23
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Audience Member
Leo and Emma, a newlywed couple from a small town in Mexico, have made the decision of a lifetime. They are coming to America. But when they arrive, they wonder if the American Dream was everything they hoped that it would be.
Fernando Rodriguez directed, wrote, edited, produced and did the cinematography for this movie, which really shows the journey that immigants have to take to try to better their lives in America, even if they have to do it illegally.
It's one thing for them to attempt to make this new life on their own, but when they have to consider their daughter Luciana, as well as living in a place with no family, friends or support, they wonder if they've made the right choice.
At under an hour, Por Mi Hija let me explore a life I wouldn't be able to see otherwise. That's about all you can ask from a film.
Rated 2/5 Stars •
Rated 2 out of 5 stars
02/06/23
Full Review
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