Introduction
The International Film Festival in Guadalajara (FICG) kicked off its 40th edition, recognized as the oldest film festival in Mexico. The event honored two prominent figures defending the cinema industry: actress Dolores Heredia and producer Mónica Lozano, alongside Spanish director Juan Antonio Bayona. As the current capital of Mexican cinema, FICG has become a crucial platform for Latin American filmmaking, with Portugal as the Guest of Honor this year.
Dolores Heredia: A 40-Year Career in Mexican Cinema
Dolores Heredia, an accomplished actress known for her roles in films like “Santitos” (1999), “Fuera del cielo” (2006), and “Chicuarotes” (2019), delivered a powerful message during the inaugural ceremony. She reflected on her 40-year career, expressing love for each project she has undertaken and acknowledging the importance of unseen films in an actor’s journey.
- Key Points:
- Heredia has been in the industry for 40 years, with notable roles in various films and television projects.
- She served as the president of the Mexican Academy of Arts and Cinematographic Sciences (AMACC) from 2015 to 2017.
- Her message emphasized the collective experience in cinema and its role as resistance against changing times.
Heredia also praised the unsung heroes of filmmaking, such as technicians and makeup artists, who contribute to shaping an actor’s career.
Mónica Lozano: A Pillar of Mexican Cinema
Mónica Lozano, a renowned film producer and advocate for the cinema industry, received the Mayahuel de Plata award. Her productions include critically acclaimed films like “Todo el poder” (1999), “Amores perros” (2000), and “Sueño en otro idioma” (2017).
- Key Points:
- Lozano’s productions have been instrumental in Mexico’s second golden age of cinema.
- She acknowledged FICG’s role as a driving force in promoting Mexican cinema for four decades.
- Lozano highlighted the festival’s significance in introducing Mexican films to the world and discussing relevant industry topics.
Homenaje to Spanish Director Juan Antonio Bayona
Spanish director Juan Antonio Bayona, known for films like “El orfanato” (2007) and “Un monstruo viene a verme” (2016), was honored with the International Mayahuel Award for his contributions to cinema.
FICG 40th Edition Opening Film
The opening film of FICG’s 40th edition was the Mexican stop-motion animated feature “Soy Frankelda,” directed by brothers Roy and Arturo Ambriz. The film is set to premiere nationwide in Mexico this fall.
