Introduction
Guillermo Arriaga, a celebrated Mexican novelist and screenwriter, recently shared his insights during the final day of activities at the 2025 edition of the Fiesta del Libro y la Rosa in Ciudad Universitaria. Arriaga, who has received the Alfaguara de Novela 2020 for “Salvar el fuego” and the Mazatlán Literature Prize 2017 for “El salvaje,” as well as winning the Best Screenplay award at the Cannes Film Festival 2005 for “Los tres entierros de Melquiades Estrada” and being nominated for the 2007 Oscar for his work on “Babel,” discussed his unique perspective shaped by his experiences as a hunter and growing up between two social classes.
Arriaga’s Early Aspirations and Cinematic Beginnings
Arriaga revealed that since childhood, he aspired to win prestigious awards such as the Nobel, Oscar, and Copa del Mundo. He practiced his acceptance speeches with a bottle of Coca-Cola, much like Oscar presenters. Despite his ambitions, he initially found the idea of directing films daunting due to the technical complexities involved.
“Amores perros” and its Origins
Arriaga’s groundbreaking film “Amores perros” marked a turning point in Mexican cinema, becoming synonymous with the Nuevo Cine Mexicano movement. He shared anecdotes about the film’s creation, including how audience members leaving the screening during its Cannes premiere led to multiple international distribution deals.
Arriaga as a Hunter and Storyteller
Known for his archery hunting, Arriaga discussed the presence of death in life and how everyone is metaphorically “sitting on a throne of blood.” He explained that hunting allows him to understand nature and human instincts more deeply, fostering a profound sense of humanism.
Lessons from Hunting
Arriaga emphasized that hunting teaches one to comprehend the fragility of civilization and the thin line between barbarism and humanity. As a storyteller, he believes this understanding enriches his literary works.
Arriaga’s Bibliography
- Escuadrón Guillotina (1991)
- Un dulce olor a muerte (1994)
- El búfalo de la noche (1999)
- Retorno 201 (2006)
- El salvaje (2016)
- Salvar el fuego (2020)
- Extrañas (2023)
Key Questions and Answers
- What are Guillermo Arriaga’s aspirations since childhood? Arriaga has always aimed to win prestigious awards like the Nobel, Oscar, and Copa del Mundo. He practiced acceptance speeches with a Coca-Cola bottle.
- How did “Amores perros” impact Mexican cinema? The film marked a significant turning point in Mexican cinema, becoming synonymous with the Nuevo Cine Mexicano movement.
- What role does hunting play in Arriaga’s life and literature? Hunting allows Arriaga to understand nature, human instincts, and fosters a profound sense of humanism in his works.
- What is the significance of Arriaga’s diverse social background? Growing up between two social classes has shaped Arriaga’s unique perspective, which is reflected in his literature.
