Damian John Harper : 2014
Mateo lives in a small, tightly knit rural community in Oaxaca, southern Mexico. He lives alone with his mother and younger brother, as his father has moved to Los Angeles to provide the family with a better income, although he hasn't been in touch for a while. Having turned sixteen, Mateo is expected to prepare his own migration to the city and joins a gang so that he can draw on their support in Los Angeles. To be accepted into their circles, he has to commit wicked crimes. One gang member in particular spreads malevolent feeling around the village, affecting even the highest-ranking men, while rumours of violent pressure being exerted on a young gang member in Los Angeles are put about. As Mateo begins to regret his decision and senses the danger waiting for him there, he starts seeing the village with new eyes, developing a sense of melancholy for his surroundings and appreciation for its way of life. The older villagers still hold on to their ancient values, maintaining a healthy connection to their roots, each supporting the other in their own way. Damian John Harper's first feature is a story about the value of family, brotherly love and one hopeful young man's struggle for a better life in a world ruled by violence and injustice. His film premiered at Berlin International Film Festival 2014.
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