THE VIOLIN
by Francisco Vargas
Synopsis: In an unnamed Latin American country that closely resembles Mexico, the government fights a rural insurgency with torture, assault, rape and murder. Soldiers descend on a town, cutting off the rebels from their cache of ammunition hidden in a field. A family of grandfather, son and grandson are among the rebels in the hills. The grandfather, with his violin over his shoulder, tries to pass the checkpoint, ostensibly to tend his corn crop. The commanding officer lets him pass but insists on a daily music lesson. Can the ld man ferry out the ammunition in his violin case under the soldiers’ nose?
Cast: Angel Tavira, Gerardo Taracena, Dagoberto Gama.
2006 / Mexico / 99 min
“The assured storytelling and impeccable social-realist values are sure to garner further attention. The non-professional lead actor inspires real affection with his creation of a mischievously heroic figure disguised as a harmless-looking old man and is the tale’s chief satisfaction”
— Variety
“Brutal military repression looks the same everywhere and Francisco Vargas’ striking and poetic film offers a plaintive cry on behalf of the oppressed”
— The Hollywood Reporter
