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La Llorona

La Llorona

Representation Score

4.9/10

Fair

2019

Not Rated

Director

Jayro Bustamante

Runtime

97 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Jayro Bustamante’s film is a powerful example of decolonial storytelling, using supernatural elements to reclaim history from those responsible for systemic violence. It centers the Maya indigenous experience and the female perspective to challenge official state narratives. The film's strength lies in its approach that connects ethnicity and gender to dismantle the legitimacy of dominant political institutions. It transforms a folk legend into a means for addressing historical injustices. However, the narrative lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and does not feature characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does La Llorona have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships. The story focuses on maternal roles and the impact of genocide on gender.

How does La Llorona portray gender?

Excellent

Women play key roles in the film, moving beyond being passive victims. Characters like Alma take active roles in driving the narrative forward and challenge traditional patriarchal structures.

How racially and ethnically diverse is La Llorona?

Excellent

The film highlights the Maya indigenous identity, going beyond token representation. It uses indigenous perspectives to challenge state-sanctioned histories and prioritize voices that have been historically sidelined.

How does La Llorona represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film critiques post-colonial institutions, portraying state and military institutions as corrupt. It emphasizes the lived experiences of the oppressed over official government narratives.

Does La Llorona include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not depict any physical or neurodivergent disabilities. While it explores psychological trauma, disability is not a central theme.

Present on Screen

  • Centers the Maya indigenous identity and perspectives effectively.
  • Challenges traditional patriarchal hierarchies by giving women significant roles.
  • Uses supernatural elements to represent underrepresented historical grievances.

Limited or Absent

  • Could include more representation of LGBTQ+ characters or identities.
  • Does not feature characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Accused of the genocide of Mayan people, retired general Enrique is trapped in his mansion by massive protests. Abandoned by his staff, the indignant old man and his family must face the devastating truth of his actions and the growing sense that a wrathful supernatural force is targeting them for his crimes.

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