Latino Films this Weekend

In the Pit aka En el hoyo
Trailer: http://movies2.nytimes.com/gst/movies/movie.html?v_id=340438

REVIEW

Literally and existentially down and dirty, “In the Pit” is an absorbing documentary about work and the transformation of men into laborers. Directed and shot with sensitive attention to detail by Juan Carlos Rulfo, the film takes us into a world apart, populated by members of the construction crew building the second deck of the Periférico beltway in Mexico City. For the city’s inhabitants, each of whom apparently spend an estimated 1,485 hours a year commuting, and mostly on public transportation, the construction is at once a nuisance and a possible solution.

For the most part, like construction sites everywhere, it is also hidden in plain sight. Mr. Rulfo takes a distinctly personal approach to his subject, eschewing issues of public policy, environmental impact or even much by way of factual information or history about the beltway. — Manohla Dargis , The New York Times

***

East of Havana

REVIEW

So much of American pop thrives on a bratty facsimile of courage that when you see the real deal, it’s a revelation. “East of Havana” is the real deal. Directed by Jauretsi Saizarbitoria and Emilia Menocal, it’s a nonfiction feature about young Cuban rappers exercising the artist’s prerogative to tell the truth in a country that muzzles free speech.

Although the film is set in 2004 during the weeklong run-up to the International Festival of Rap Cubano and in the shadow of Hurricane Charley, there’s no phony urgency. The filmmakers are mainly interested in hearing the music and learning about the musicians’ compelling personal stories. — Matt Zoller Seitz, The New York Times

Spread the love

More Articles for You

16 Essential Books on Witches, Witchcraft, Feminist History

These curated books trace the witch from early-modern trials and accusations to feminist history, reproductive politics, aging, sexuality, power, and Gothic fiction.

Spread the love

Raising Boys Today: 18 Books Every Mother of Sons Should Read

Explore the inner lives of boys through psychology, reporting, memoir, cultural criticism, and fiction, from friendship and masculinity to pornography, consent, trauma, race, social media, feminism, and the complicated work of loving sons without possessing them.

Spread the love

10 Essential Books About Taíno History Before 1492: An Indigenous Peoples’ Day Reading List

Explore 10 essential books about Taíno history, archaeology, culture and Indigenous Caribbean life before 1492, curated for Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Spread the love

Puerto Rican Porridges: Maizena, Harina de Maíz, and the Comfort of the Boricua Breakfast

A personal and cultural essay on Puerto Rican porridges, including silky maizena, avena and harina de maíz recipes with cinnamon, fresh ginger, and dried orange rind, plus lactose-free options.

Spread the love

Yesteryear and the Problem of “This Moment” Fiction

Disclosure: I received a complimentary advance review copy of Yesteryear. As always, receiving a galley does not influence my opinions. …

Spread the love

42 of the Best Feminist Rage Books and Feminist Theory Books to Read Right Now

I have been seeing a lot of requests for feminist rage books lately, and I understand why. We are living …

Spread the love