Tijuana as Identity and Flag
At the first edition of the Tijuana International Film Festival (TIF), director Rigoberto Perezcano and producer Cristina Velasco unveiled their latest feature film, “Los Amantes se Despiden con la Mirada.” This premiere holds special significance for Velasco, a native Tijuanan who views the festival as crucial for national cinema. Velasco, having produced three of Perezcano’s films, expressed her pride in returning to Tijuana with this film that carries personal significance.
Rigoberto Perezcano: Feeling at Home in Tijuana
Perezcano, who filmed his debut feature “Norteado” in Tijuana, feels right at home. He highlighted the city’s cultural evolution and emphasized that the festival’s existence is a testament to the local community’s struggle. Both Perezcano and Velasco stressed the importance of maintaining the festival as a platform for films with distinct identities, independent of Hollywood’s influence.
Los Amantes se Despiden con la Mirada: A Necessary Cry
“Los Amantes se Despiden con la Mirada” is the culmination of Perezcano’s Oaxacan trilogy. Described as “painful yet beautiful” and most importantly, “necessary,” the film tackles the harsh reality of girls sold into marriage due to customs in Oaxaca, Guerrero, Chiapas, and Puebla communities. Perezcano expressed his motivation, condemning the practice of child marriage as a grave violation of children’s rights.
A Challenging Production and Social Commitment
The production, starting in February 2020, faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical difficulties, including resource scarcity and fear of infection. Despite these obstacles, Perezcano remained committed to his social mission, aiming to reach indigenous communities where such marriages still occur.
Distribution and Future
Though commercial screenings in national theaters are planned for 2026, the immediate priority is to showcase the film in Oaxaca and affected communities. Perezcano and Velasco remain dedicated to using cinema as a tool for change, hoping their efforts inspire future generations.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is “Los Amantes se Despiden con la Mirada” about? It’s a film addressing the issue of child marriage in certain indigenous communities in Mexico, portrayed as a necessary and poignant narrative.
- Who are Rigoberto Perezcano and Cristina Velasco? Perezcano is a Mexican director known for his trilogy including “Los Amantes se Despiden con la Mirada.” Velasco is a producer who has collaborated with Perezcano on multiple projects.
- What challenges did the film face during production? The production encountered numerous hurdles, including interruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical issues like resource scarcity.
- What is the film’s distribution plan? The film aims to reach affected communities first, with wider national screenings planned for 2026.
- What is the film’s message? The film seeks to raise awareness about child marriage and advocate for the protection of children’s rights.
Los Amantes se Despiden con la Mirada (2025)
- Director: Rigoberto Perezcano
- Country: Mexico
- Duration: 84 minutes
- Release date: October 13, 2025 (Mexico)
- Locations: Oaxaca.
