“No Hard Feelings”

Posted on November 20, 2016 by Harry Brake

screen-shot-2016-11-20-at-7-46-19-amMorning Song – Avett Brothers.    I found a link to them from NPR and was hooked on No Hard Feelings, and with a little digging, found a gold line in some other songs.

Sometimes you stumble across a song, a writing, etc that just helps memories flood back, both the far past and the recent, and well yes, the Avett Brothers, Hard Feelings, did exactly that for me.

Thanksgiving 2016 and MUCH to be thankful for and often I complain complain and forget that these things have been amazing-

A new level of making connections with people from difference schools in Mexico, as well as a new year of new staff, and love working and meeting them as they provide new ideas constantly and provide a sense of renewal.

An amazing Repentino. adventure continues this year, a staff made of old and new, that more than any year ever, have been able to do so much more with their own confidences, 

Healthy family and they are having good things happening in their lives – there is not much you could ask for.

A job that allows me to delve in, discover more about my strengths, as well as my weaknesses and rediscover myself every day.

Students from years past reconnecting with slowly and realizing how lucky I have been on the past as well as the present day.

Pets that make me laugh, smile, and realize even the days they infuriate me, they remind me how good I have it 🙂 

Appreciating every day more and more, what I HAVE opposed to that basic human nature to get get get get….sigh

With so many cool marathon-schedule events happening, and amazing staff on our Repentino. pulling them off amazingly, in addition to working with other clubs, other groups, the sphere of being successful is redefined and reshaped – redefining who Repentino. as an organization as an influence in the world.

A world-class advocacy of students that every morning, make me laugh, smile, and yes still shake my head.

Having the opportunity to go back to Pittsburgh, Delaware, Takoma Park, MD and visit some great great places and just be around friends and family – despite the rise in the dollar!  LOVE! 

These are simply just a FEW reasons why I am seeing more and more how Thanksgiving is not isolated to just the United States, but how it is reached out and influenced my and so many awesome individuals I have been lucky enough to meet.

I have never become used to how fast time flies – and never reminded of it more than when I see current students who have been with me for so long, then graduation hits you, hits you in the heart at capping ceremony, then hits you harder in your soul at graduation, and you realize, how you just wish you would have made more days where you just sat and talked, laughed, remembered, because at graduation, it becomes so hard to recapture any of those moments.  

That leads to moments you realize how many lost memories and moments exist outside our sphere of school, and all in all, you realize what a lucky son of a gun you are for having the students who have become family, the colleagues that help you make it through every day, the colleagues that have moved on that you still hold close to your heart, and the family that move you forward and oftentimes without them knowing how much.  

I still marvel over the weaknesses I have, but the strength I have to recognize them given to me from all the above mentioned, and yes, you realize how amazing Thanksgiving is thanks to all the people in your life that you often don’t think about all at once.

Sticking with the Avett Brothers, I listen to this and smile, and think of all of you that have helped me become who I am today  🙂    February 7 – Avett Brothers.

Thank you for making me who I am and helping me get through the bad to a better me!

 

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“Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea” – Never Truer.

Posted on November 13, 2016 by Harry Brake

img_9439You always wonder what you will get when you go into a play, concert, production, any event that you know minimal amount with the hope of coming out a winner.  With research, Deep Blue Sea seemed to be a introspective look at the role on relationships, that view to outsiders, and the conflicts that occur among all.

In watching the set, the vastness of the set showing multiple floors and the comings and goings, I felt the openness of the set showing the interior of the building helped reveal the isolation, sometimes “aloneness” felt by the female protagonist, Helen McCrory (who played Hester Collyer).

When the National Theatre does their intermission interviews, I found the reason behind the full set was to set the appearance of everyone on the building being able to “hear” or sense the life of Hester.  It would literally represent the “paper thin” walls that appeared, to allow that appearance when the tenants talked to Hester. I never thought of that at all, which was one of the many reasons I life the behind the scenes dialogue that occurs with productions at the Lunario, from the  different perspectives are at every corner.

Ever see Who’s Afraid of Virgina Woolf?  In 2001, as part of the Stratford Festival course at Slippery Rock University, under Dr. Permenter, we attended.  It was the first time I ever saw the production. I was shaken, truly.  I remember sitting beside Ms Ashley Brand, and reminiscent I was, of how horrific the stressful moments reminded me of some of the worst relationships I ever had in my own life.  It was that good.

The Deep Blue Sea reminded me of this as well.  The conflicts, missed connection in the relationships we see, the reminder that relationships are a very complex beast, the misunderstandings of others we think we understand, this production is truly a deep and personal account of all these themes.  The actors and actresses, all play a pivotal moment into the spyglass experience.  Peter Sullivan was the perfect Casablanca-like individual that seemed to carry a sense of grace and magic when he entered on and off the stage.

Certainly Post-War Britain is represented – and I think the most through Tom Burke’s role of Freddie.  Listed as the “bad-boy” character, it truly seems Burke is able to represent all the disenchanted, discontent attitudes that did find themselves in so many during this somewhat seemingly stagnant period.  Unsure of which direction to turn to, uncertain promises and paths to success, and so many more attitudes found themselves within the persona that Tom Burke would go on to play, and done brilliantly.

I do like back stories, appreciating the revival of this production, from Terrence Rattigan’s tragic backstory.  The issue of recognizing diverse beliefs does stem from this article, but that my friends is another blog post.  Overall the brief appearances from the other characters that served as friends and neighbors, all of these characters were powerful and deserve a second look over as well as a look at this newest revival Terrence Rattigan‘s production.  

The director of this production of Depp Blue Sea, Carrie Cracknell, Brilliant. This pre-show talk – https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/file/13421/view – WOW.  The talk with Ms Cracknell during this production shows how she can channel the power of women, their historical roles in various occupations, and the need for reform on behalf of women everywhere.  A resounding echo to our President elect for sure.  

There were so many resounding elements from this production that carry themselves off the stage.  True, sometimes there is power in not knowing in initially, and discovering as you go.  Such was the case in this Lunario production.  Between the Devil and the Deep Blue  Sea has never been more real thanks to this production.

 

 

 

 

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The Hidden Jewels in Reading Slam Take 2.

Posted on November 9, 2016 by Harry Brake

Disappointed.  How many times have the well-laid, perfect plans on an organizations’ event turned sour.  Personally, I still harbor the disasters from a throughly well-planned event when I go to plan any event – any activity, and it motivates me to push on and avoid those same roadblocks.  So there is that.

When we planned a new event, Reading Slam 101 this year, a slight groan might have been heard through the pages of the Repentino. Literary Art publication with the fear of taking on too much.  Understood, taking on things is aokay, but we do it with the intention if it being successful.  So, the first Reading Slam, crickets could be heard and less people that fill a bathroom, in tight quarters, despite thorough planning.  Yet, resolve and hope was not diminished.  

screen-shot-2016-11-09-at-1-45-15-amRound two – you could FEEL it – just something different, but a sense of nervousness about the outcome, what it would be, how this would play out different with out work to rebound, hope.

Rewarded.  Slow at first, and picking up speed – it was AMAZING.  Thank to all the participants, and I mean all including a very special guest speaker that was well, let’s explain.  Sam, our co editor in chief for Repentino. is slowly putting aside the “I’m not good that this” card and just pushing herself forward and guess what?  She is turning out to be pretty good at this – which is the key of persistence.

From alumni, to current educators, to students, students rushing in and still making this a priority, we saw a Reading Slam worth more than it’s weight in what was read, but through the energy and passion for wanting to push forward and let their contribution make a difference.  it lined up with the very inspiring words, laughter, and dedication to how writing does make a difference – thanks to poet Enrique Marquez Jaramillo.  Some of the best speakers and guests we have had, have been in secret and their words resonating beyond secrets for sure.  Translation here –  enrique-marquez-2.   Having the support of someone as amazing, believing in students like ASF does through Daniella Escalante Nassar – do you see what a difference it makes? Anyone can rebound form a zero to the opposite of the scale – this was existing proof, just in the form of an event.  Or a poet.  Or a student.  Or a teacher.  Or a future any of the above  🙂   

One of the defining moments was seeing Ms Ritter, even though she was tutoring STILL coming to read a dramatic piece and making this a priority.  Or Regina coming at very last minute, just as all was about to end, and willing to not only be confident to read a variety of pieces, from a Haiku to an excerpt of her current story in process, to inviting the audience how to check out more or her story- inviting them as guests.  Or original works but a not so recent graduate, turned educator in Mr. Jones, and experiencing the motivation in his words.  Or the ASF sponsor herself, allowing us to share her inner thoughts with everyone involved.  

This is powerful when you have individuals as the above willing to put so much on the line to push forward, Michaela, Jose, Diana, Sisel, Marc, individual that came to this Reading Slam not even expecting to participate, and yet, their contribution, (many think it is so small that are contributing) and in reality, it is their determination, will, and passion for something, and willingness to break through doubts other have, that lead others to gain confidence.  It is vital for individuals to support each other, clubs to support other clubs, current clubs to turn their eyes internationally to see how they can affect change in their own communities, as well as int he world around them.  This often involves risk-taking, and sometimes standing up for something you believe in.  Worth it?  Most definitely.  Something I wish my own country would have done during the election and even post election, I hope this will be the case to hold individuals MROE RESPONSIBLE for how they treat each other.  Yet, this can start in such an event as even a Reading Slam.  

Call it Poetry, call it a reading slam, the flexibility to change an event for the sake of hearing others’ views, words, and thoughts, is an art form in itself that Repentino. takes pride in, aligning with the title, and meaning, of without warning or suddenly.  Thanks to this powerful Reading Slam, many can leave and take away much more than that.  Stay tuned for some solid examples of the material read here, so you can see what to expect, and what you can bring to the next Reading Slam, in December, in the form of a short story, (less than 5 minutes).

I can’t describe how proud I am to have seen the strides and challenges we, as a group specifically, in Repentino., has grown alongside with, matured and seemingly is growing to be a voice for positive change and supporting others.  Five years ago obviously, the dream was to SURVIVE and somehow, some day much later, grow – to do just that, survive.  Thanks to the bold risks, creativity, and ability to see beyond the page, Repentino., as one example, has grown to serve as a beacon of openness and a path to create a more open look at everything around us.  In the process, we have learned that that is the goal and right of many organizations, and if Repentino. can help others achieve that, aren’t we that much better for it?

I felt our esteemed guest reader, Enrique Marquez Jaramillo, was able to represent all that Mexico stands to represent, conflict, emotions, working through so much based on our experience to them, and a boldness to tackle the word for our sake, and the sake of others.  What better gift could an individual provide?  I can think of few if any gifts that coulscreen-shot-2016-11-09-at-1-41-35-amd be as powerful.  Thank you to all that allowed this to be a defining moment.  We look forward to cohosting Master Yamazaki, calligrapher,
on Tuesday, with the Asian Club. To hear our previous Repentino. podcast with him, click on our link!  

 

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Econ Fair, Art Fair and the Election Affair.

Posted on November 8, 2016 by Harry Brake

As the final “bells of election” are ringing, I have a chance for final thoughts on so much leading up to events that will never be the same again. It is no secret that I have wanted in a President more qualities than I did actually see. Respect for all races, religions beliefs, not an answer of a blockage or wall as a means to find cooperation; seeking a willingness to discuss, share, and differ yet still with respect. A President free of controversy, taking advantage of the government loopholes and what seems at times hiding behind government policy – and just a president that seems to embody a fresh, new start, a positive change in the direction of improving the world, and not fencing one in within borders.

Sigh. True, you can’t always get what you want, but there has been so many things amazing when we move past what is happening in such a crucial moment tonight.

This year’s Art Fair was the very first, where I did not find myself selling food all day, one where I was able to try on a different hat, one of promoting and informing those about the fact that Repentino. is a hub for change, promoting interests of women’s rights, men’s right, the freedom of expression, and a printed publication is just one example of this – as we hoped to show. I was so proud of the amazing job the staff did in interviewing individuals from all walks of life, about so many issues facing women, not only supporting the effort in our Sierra Leone collaboration, Ohio talks, but also being able to focus on how we can get out and meet people and introduce them to how we use expression in so many different ways! So much excitement and good that came out of the Art Fair, and that was exciting to see how important of a role everyone played in the process.  72 video interviews later, and we have some amazing footage with much potential!

Econ Fair. I was crazy CRAZY impressed with one particular group – the group that decided to bring in kittens to pet, and sure enough, they had a message to promote how others could be involved to save animals – wow. I would love to see the spin on Econ Fair take on say, ways to build in cool service projects, cool efforts to introduce programs that took the place of food maybe – or involved food somehow, and showing Econ Fair as a tool of getting individuals more involved with how they can better their own environments.

NANO, yes National Novel Writing Month is happening and is so exciting! Many working on their novel and so many diverse ideas – and giving yourself permission to create, be yourself, while discovering yourself! It is crazy exciting to give yourself the right to do something for you all month long.

I will have to devote a specific post to the amazing speakers we’d have the chance to interview, (I am behind on so many cool and coming up podcasts in the making right now, so the next few days leading up to vacation next week are full – of cool cool coverage of some great events and individuals.

As thousands are writing their novel for NANO, we are all anxiously awaiting the results of how the United States will write it’s novel this evening! Here’s to 2016 everyone and a wish for positive turn for the better – (Is the rain and thunder tonight in Mexico an omen?)

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Dia De Los Muertos – Day of the Dead 2016

Posted on November 2, 2016 by Harry Brake

Sounds weird?  Sounds spooky?  Still unsure what this means for Mexico?  If you were me, I had 100% misconception of EVERYTHING Mexico, until now. 

 THIS solves this problem regard ing Dia De Los Muertos – it says it all and explains it all PERFECTLY!  Watch and enjoy!

Happy Dia De Los Muertos!

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The Roots Remain – Film Series Part IV

Posted on October 30, 2016 by Harry Brake

screen-shot-2016-10-30-at-10-07-24-amDocsMX, amazing. If you did not know, DocsMX happens every October – and is absolutely amazing.  Hundreds of documentary films, most free, (depending on location) that simply, just open your eyes.

October 17th – Parque Pushkin, the film, Las Raices Permancecen – The Roots Remain.  Not knowing what this was, I was in for a surprise.  I was so impressed with the depth of this voyage to Cambodia, and how this producer and artist made such a personal connection to his family, the history of Cambodia, and the people of Cambodia.  Extensions and educational networking, to the nth degree this was it.  I was pumped and saw the artist (Yavana Chhem-Kieth) and producer (Andrew Marchand-Boddy)  (they were HERE!) talking to individuals after the film, and as I was walking a few blocks home, thought, I have a copy of our Repentino. magazine at home, we connected to The Cambodia Smart Arts School, and thought I need to connect with this artists while he is here visiting, truly acting on the idea of our name, Repentino., without warning.  I thought, if we do not take advantage of moments that present themselves, we will always wonder What if…

That was all I needed – I grabbed the magazine, I walked back to Parque Pushkin, saw them walking back towards my apartment, and introduced myself, introduced our magazine, and the offer to come to ASF and talk about this film was on the table!  YES!  Three days later, here is our Editor in Chief, the producer, the artist at ASF and we are planning potential events in the future, and I thought, yes, this is taking the possibility of education to happen in teachable moments anywhere, anytime, all we have to do is be prepared and ready to keep an open mind in how these moments CAN be life-changing moments.    Stay tuned for the most amazing podcast Repentino. was able to do with Fonki and the producer.

I could not help but think MUN, has so much more than what we have done with it in the past, these issues of Cambodia, as well as other films with content (as you will see below) have the chance to springboard off of what we do at MUN and create even more in-depth approaches to what we do at MUN, to bring an awareness of MUN being itself, a springboard, of learning to reach out in some small way, to the very countries we represent, and send a message,  What if each delegation did something that actually sent a message to the country they represented, and also incorporate films into depending the connection to their represented country DURING MUN?  Things to ponder that should not be put on the shelf, but could in fact, change the approach and attitudes of how we impact the world.  

Onto the amazing films I was able to take in… (All titles are links so check them out!)

*La Laguna – AMAZING look into what Chiapas is, the beauty of the Mayan individuals.  Also, how local habitats begin to clash with the need for education, the intelligence of cultures versus the need for an education in a formal setting, and how these clashes occur.  The beauty of Chiapas in this film is revealed and the inner stories you would never know.  True, the pacing is gorgeous and you just want to sit and see more, without having any rapid-fire thoughts, this slows you down and allows you to reflect – LOVE.

*La carga – This biting, graphic, and raw look into the rail and Cuba is brilliant and perfectly captured.  Truly, some life choices of the individuals that are responsible for life on a train are – they make you gasp a bit, but also, you get a gritty of live not only on a rail car, but of Cuba and the choices that the country offers and the choices individuals make.

*El Buzo – wow.  Ever think about how large the septic /sewage tanks are for Mexico City?  I would never dream of thinking about it, until I discovered this documentary.  Truly a hero and truly learning to respect so much more about Mexico, this film takes you to so many thoughts and possible discussions, realizations, and just aspects words cannot touch.  You have to watch this to even come close to the aw this movie puts into place.  One of the best documentary films for many diverse reasons.

*Underground traveller – This look at the many perspectives of Mexico through the metro, LOVE.  It reminded me of two things – first artists Jason Schell  (Don’t miss this upcoming exhibition -open until Sunday evening, November 27th and that there will be a closing reception-  Details HERE!)  who has managed to capture this mechanical life, as well as pedestrian life, of the metro and is on exhibit throughout Mexico City.  Second, the many people that never experience the up’s and downs, the good and the bad, of the metro.  They miss out on a HUGE piece of Mexican life and culture, and I am so thankful I have made it a part of my everyday Mexican experience.  Brilliantly done.

*A documentary film – I have seen some amazing animation in this DOcsMX film festival this year, and I am sorry to have missed this one, though it looks amazing and looks like it has a story to tell.

*El nido – MUN.  All I could think about is the look of the Sahara and the life we have no idea about, and ways that we can fix that.  This film is an amazing, patient look at taking in another culture and respecting it, respecting the differences and really making sure, especially with this election, that it should not be the U.S. way to ignore the influences the way of life other countries have – and respecting that).

*En defense del misil – Wow.  Again, thoughts of MUN and how we, as a student body can go beyond a simulation and use MUN to reach out send send message to the UN and other countries.  This shows the technology influence/fast paced world view, of how history can recirculate into the same, destructive trends despite intentions, intentions are good for peace talks, but action is the element that creates and keeps peace. I hope we have more “put your money where your mouth is” that moves towards real peace, and not the actions of peace.  This film captures that perfectly!

*Existencia – “The Greasy Pole” – wow, this is CRAZY, lol.  But it is also cool to be able to learn how this came to be thanks to Azteca folklore – if you look closely, you see this sparks festivals from Italy to all over – a great chance to see how this came to be and tie to cultural beliefs you may or may not have known.

*The Best of the Worst – Lo mejor de lo peor; fotógrafos ñeros – Eery. Yet, another look, captured perfectly, of the aspects of Mexican society you’d never get a chance to see other than the ability given to us from this filmmaker.  Art truly, but still gave me goosebumps – reminded me of the movie Seven for some reason.  

*Ojo por ojo – I mentioned how amazing some of the animation has been and this is no exception.  Chilling is an understatement, and anger.  Frustration.  Wondering how could this have been prevented. So many emotions and unsure how to discuss them without fighting back the emotions that rise up first.  Powerful, disturbing, heart wrenching, and more.

*El francotirador de Kobane – Again, MUN comes to mind and all you can think is, the extremes individuals will go to to preserve their culture, country, and lifestyle in the middle of such international conflict.  Again, it is difficult to se MUN be a simulation when we have the opportunity to use MUN as a springboard to do something, no matter how large, no matter how small.

*El lugar mas cerca de dios  – The beauty of mountain climbing, life, and photography, as well as the adventure of discovering nature – all these are represented in this film.  I thought of my buddy Aaron Mines, as well as all those that venture to discover the extreme heights that can be found not only in Mexico, but all over the world.  Also, how fragile life is and how pertinent it is to never waste a day, ever.

*Kilómetros por recorrer antes de dormir. Again, MUN and the tragedies of human trafficking.  This is one of many of countless crimes that impact so many people’s lives, and my hope is that as the United States, and humanitarian efforts, individuals and groups, find ways to infiltrate ways to raise an awareness and energies to combat these injustices – whether you are 10 or 100 years old, there is always space to make a change and and effort to help others.

*The Learning Alliance  – When you have young children willing to scavenge the dumps to fund their education, their hope for a future better, I can’t help but ask myself, what am I doing, what can I do to enable this to occur for others?  Again, issues arise that can be covered in MUN, and provide solutions that will make this no longer a reality.  Shocking, inspiring, heart wrenching all at once.

*Puntos suspensivos –  I am continually amazed at the connections that animation can make to show how history, rights, information across cultures and events can be made more transparent.  I love this as it seems to show possibilities, thanks to the “artisticness” many show and a challenge for each of us to use a talent to make the world a better place.

*Reflejos de londres – LOVE the perspectives, questions, and images that is poetically mashed together to create a feeling of London and show how all view images, locations, and experiences differently.  Inspiring that we call could put together images in a film and make a statement about so so much!

*Tierra de brujas, mar de sirenas    – Having so many cool experiences at Xochimilco, this Blair Witch-like approach is amazing and perfect for Day of the Dead, the Island of the Dolls and so much more.  Done very well – and just love.

*Los homicidios del Karma –   For as many aspects of creepy, eery, real-life crime that is brought to us in documentaries, there are so many more internationally.  Again, this is no exception at all.  This film brought many differing perspectives to India, and that there is this aspect of violence and crime, internationally, that exists.  It caused the hair on my arms to rise as I discovered the Dahmer-like scenario that unfolded.  I can’t imagine the feeling of covering this story, as well as the revelations about caste, law, and morals in the Indian system.

Here we are full circle and I realize every year, more and more, I am more and more eager to find more about the world around us, and realizing how powerful film can be as a social movement for change, and I always feel when this documentary film festival comes around, how much wasted money and time the film industry does not utilize to spur change in our country and others.  There is much to do, and DocsMX certainly helps push that ideal.  I am so glad I made the steps back to interview the connections to The Roots Remain, so many implications from that encounter.

 

 

 

 

 

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Extending Beyond the Frame, Part III Film Series

Posted on October 24, 2016 by Harry Brake

The world is such an amazing place.  I have realized this over the last three weeks, be it a crazy and wild last three weeks but, experiencing – so many things I just never saw coming – glad they have come our way, but looks like we will be on the blog posting circuit for the next few days to capture the importance of these along the way.

Lately, being involved with the dynamic site, Youthvoices, we have been lucky enough to start the potentials of collaboration of working with other districts to push the wave of possibility, redefine what being international is, and having the ideas of film play a part. Having the great idea of a Film Club at ASF, ironically, we have been lucky enough to have started with interviewing the producer and a former Repentino. staffer, as well as cast

Screen Shot 2016-10-24 at 7.29.06 AM.png

member of No Manches Frida a few weeks ago – then in the process talking to several schools about a joint project, supporting girls in Sierra Leone with a group in Ohio, CU4C, as well as working to help support a film festival school in Coppell, Texas.  It is truly easy to see how alive things become when you wonder what happens when you reach out.  

This has created a bridge of what students can truly do to make connections that consist of actions that truly can change the world.  Some of which have been an MUN that considers and performs actions in discussion outside of the walls of our own school, (while still considering /covering events that occur within), as well as considering how all clubs can make an impact beyond their own campus.   In fact from the very beginning, we are slowly building ideas and the final phase is to make this happen.  See some of the past experiences, including October 18th’s that explains ideas where individuals CAN become involved:

September 29, 2016  First Google Hang out to start this collaboration process      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Jhc4MK38W

Oct 6, 2016 Youth Cast – Tampico  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0XEymFIk9Q&feature=youtu.be

October 13, 2016 – Film Club    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cUCEn3BWzo

October 18, 2016 – Sierra Leone explained    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNI8mXzz3Gs

Oct 20, 2016 –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PZKOptYm_Y                                          (Most recent follow with Calls to Action)

With the 2016-2017 year, we are discovering how film is becoming an ever-increasing medium for social change, both in Mexico and outside, and keeping an open mind of how everyone, in various ways, and strengthening the connections in between.  The possibilities are endless thanks to the energy that is brought forth.

With CU4C putting out a call for action, for A Day in the Life, we hope to grab 

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Documentary Films – Setting You Free…Film Series Part II

Posted on October 16, 2016 by Harry Brake

screen-shot-2016-10-16-at-8-01-48-amThe Documentary Film Series has come to D.F. in large fashion.  Friday was the opener, and as we took in the first film Friday , 8:30 PM, at The Goethe Institute, utter shock.  Shock always comes at these films as we witness events that we thought we should know about and yet do not.  Such was the case with the first film we witnessed, La Promesa – based on similar events that occur from reading In Cold Blood.

“When my love swears that she is made of truth, I do believe her, though I know she lies, That she might think me some untutored youth, unlearned in the world’s false subtleties.”
Sonnet 138, Shakespeare

I could give details, but no, not until the film fest is over, just relieved when we walked out that we were not in serious relationships and the realization that how good life is as single individual, after this disturbing documentary that has escaped the attention of many.  (Macbeth has nothing on this film).  One of the best things about the DocsMX festival is the humbling of information that you discover, the opening if a window to events that are occurring in your own country, and others, that you have had no idea at all about.  Sometimes a Pandora’s Box, other times not.  La Promesa was no exception at all.  Meeting Marcus Vetter, a director from Germany, was quite intriguing to see how he became involved in this project from Germany, as it took place in Virginia.

Saturday – We headed to the Parque Mexico theatre but realized the collection of program 1 film was actually at The Goethe Institute at noon. We headed back to the Goethe, and settled in.  However, we didn’t know at the time, Program 1 of films was the children’s collection of films, which to be honest, was set up amazingly for children.

Being a few minutes late, we came on on a claymation picture, but wow, amazing.  Latvian film, Meza Sargi (Forest Guards) was unique but AWESOME.  Maris Brinkmaris is worth a double check as an animation director but this was ideal on the themes of respecting the world we live in.  Classic references to Wallace & Gromit. I was amazed at the preparations Goethe and DOCMX to have this series of films for children, and the actors on stage in between to interact with the children, it’s funny when you drop in and not knowing what Program I means on the Film schedule!

~

This is one of my personal favorites – The PressKit is maybe an anticipatory set to the film but no, seeing this is simply like a breath of fresh air – Perhaps one of the most beautiful films due to the scenery, the characters, the idea, was Dancing for You, about dancing the Norwegian traditional dance, the Halling, but as a young girl doing so in light of the hardships of her grandfather, documenting his fight against cancer as Vilde works through this reality.  I gave too much away already but this is one of the most beautiful documentaries originally made for children, but amazing and touching for all.  This was a huge highlight of the DocsMX fest so far. The vision of this director? – Erlend E, Mo?  True it seems to be only capable of being captured on film. The beauty of Vilde Ellegaard Westeng,  Norway, and the Halling is captured and you simply want to GO, FLY TO NORWAY, to witness.

~

Tibet has always been a place of mystery, absolute.  Loden is a monk in training as a young boy and this is a spectacular look into what the film, Loden the Little Monk has to offer. Idolizing Drogba Didier who plays for Chelsea, brings a sense of reality and focus into the Tibetan beliefs as well as a reverence of the breadth of Tibet.  This film carried a sense of reverence you can’t ignore, with all the previous experiences we’ve had, just being in Mexico, with Tibet.

The Ecological School -La Escuelita Ecologica – WOW.  This is again reinforcing the reality of students, at such a young age, that can change the future – this is the film that proves and shows this.  Located in the municipality of Tlaxco Tlaxcala, this is how, and only one example, of how change can occur and is vital.  The students being the voice of this documentary is perhaps one of the strongest message that Rene Lopez Caballero allows to emerge and show how such a change can occur.  This is a true example of how ecology can be preserved, on every country.

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Next Stop – Utopia – Again, one of those looks into a way that government seems to stop helping, and individuals that want to change the outcomes of their country – this is an AMAZING film to see how those privileged, and maintain the privilege, despite those struggling, and fighting for a better way- this is a success story worth of examining.  When, in the United States so much accountability is being asked for in the wrong individuals, much attention is needed to be brought and given to other countries – to increase the possibility of what this country can do, and that country/  Vio.me is an example of what is needed in the world, NOT walls, but a willingness to open the doors to be collaborative in helping each other, and not beating each other.  Next Stop: Utopia has so many messages worth investigating, this is something you can’t read and gather it all, you have to see the process and understand what it can mean for the world.    P.S.  I do NOT like Christina Philippou, at all!

From the director Apostolos Karakasis:

“They are going against the law, the judicial authorities and the factory’s ex-owners, while they fight to gain some kind of legal status. There are conflicts within the group as well; practicing direct democracy among people with different attitudes, convictions and ideas can be very hard. But what proves to be the hardest, is the inner conflicts each individual has to face as the times are calling for a deep personal transformation. These people in their fifties are forced to develop a new identity, one that will allow them to survive in dignity and withstand the sufferings of an «outrageous fortune». The giant shifts they have to perform can sometimes seem comic and tragic at the same time.”

~

La ciudad de los fragmentos La ciudad de los fragmentos – City Fragments –

La ciudad del caos constante y la calma momentánea,
del milagro vacío,
del remedio instantáneo,

de las patadas voladoras,
la ciudad sin límite de tiempo,
la ciudad de las múltiples caídas.

La ciudad es un pasatiempo, un sueño,
un juego, una contradicción
La ciudad es un destierro.

When I am flying in or out of Mexico City, I look down and still wonder, how did I get here?  It seems like a error, a mistake of luck, and yet, I realize sitting here, watching this personal documentary directed by Anaid Gonzalez Saenz, that to understand a country, is not to simply read and be taught it from my home countries’ textbooks, but to find the truth for myself.  I have been lucky to have been given a gift to see through realistic eyes, not politicians’, not blinded individuals that read what Mexico is from newspapers, but been given the gift as an American – realizing the power and pride of what Mexico is amid the painted descriptions of corruption, to see how beautiful Mexico is, and to appreciate it

This film is able to paint that picture for you!

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No Manches Monday Leads to Many Film-Oriented Paths Part I

Posted on October 15, 2016 by Harry Brake

screen-shot-2016-10-15-at-7-53-38-amIt truly was a No Manches Monday.  Mondays are hard as it is, but, with the help of an amazing library cadet, the typical Monday was thrown out the window this past week.  In working with library cadets, often you face the same stereotypes – library- a book depository, and maybe a little more – yet, when you peek inside and see what is happening, you realize that libraries, and the individuals who support them, can be the key to unlocking door never thought to be opened.

Meet Sarah, new to our school this year and obviously full of potential, and Monday was proof of that. Through several weeks of planning, Sarah made the correct contacts to invite the producer of a current film, Mauricio Arguelles, No Manches Frida, as well as an actress and former Repentino. PR staff member, Pamela Moreno  (both ASF alumni to our school on Monday, October 10th.  Just as we are often fooled by the word library into thinking what a library stands for, both Mr Arguelles and Ms Moreno helped us see what goes on behind the scenes as well as in front of the camera.

I fall into the trap of thinking that everything I see on the screen, is a product of what comes from the heart and soul of the actors, actresses, as well as producers.  Not necessarily true and often, scenes and moments lead you into the paths of being taken away from the reality of the business.  Mr. Arguelles was able to define the ground rules of how films do work and often from a producer’s perspective as well as from an actresses.

Seeing the film industry, from a Mexican perspective in the United States reflected totally different appreciations for films on behalf of individuals from Mexico IN Mexico itself, loyalties to Mexico from abroad often affected the numbers of individuals seeing No Manches Frida – depending on where you were viewing this film from.  Never thought about that.  

Based on the German film Fack ju Göhte, Lionsgate did take a risk, but a successful one in taking on this venture, as well as the producer and actors themselves.  Over the Labor Day Weekend, numbers highly supported the evidence Marguelles demonstrated of viewers that have a different sense of loyalty that tie films to Mexico, from individuals not necessarily in Mexico.  Lionsgate showed that No Manches Frida “…scored solidly with $4.7 million at 362 locations in the U.S. for an impressive per-screen average of $12,845 for the Labor Day weekend.   Also, “it’s the second biggest opening after 2013’s “Instructions Not Included,” which grossed $7.8 million in 348 theaters and totaled $44.4 million, setting a record for a Spanish-language movie in the U.S. market. Pantelion also opened “Un Gallo con Muchos Huevos” with $3.4 million at 395 locations on the same weekend last year with the comedy winding up with more than $9 million by the end of its run” (http://variety.com/2016/film/news/no-manches-frida-box-office-lionsgate-1201852381/).

At times in your face, rough, and sometimes portraying the worst of what “that class” can present to a student body, as well as to teachers, and to other students, when I viewed No Manches Frida the first day it opened in Mexico, yes, there were likes and unlikes on my side for sure. I found myself laughing out loud, loving the soundtrack song, as well as moments that not necessarily aroused my interest and thought overdone.  Yet, the IDEA, the idea of the misadventures that involve a high school, students, teachers, and the dilemmas, both rowdy, conservative and more, they were all there.   In meeting the talented producer Mauricio Arguelles and Pamela Moreno who played Cuquis in the film, I was able to make the connection that yes, sometimes you take on films because there is a success rate and you have partial views to taking on a project due to its success, not necessarily a film you will hold close to your heart, but also giving a chance for the members of that film for a new opportunity.  

Being given a different perspective is what films, as well as education is all about.  Often we do not get the chance or opportunity to do so, and Sarah was able to work very diligently over a few weeks to being that opportunity to ASF.  As the ASF alumni representative, Mauricio Arguelles was a welcome window to the film industry, as well as Pamelo Moreno of what students involved in an international education, as well as Repentino. then film, can go on to do, and to express to a viewing public.  I realizing that no one was asking me to LOVE No Manches Frida, but to play closer attention to what the production, involvement, and presence of a Mexican – based  language film can have on publics outside of Mexico and on an international scale.  That developing a new perspective is a value that goes beyond what the film makes at the box office.  Thank you Sarah and ASF for allowing this opportunity to flourish!  To see more of that question and answer session, please check out Repentino.’s coverage of the Q& A with Mauricio Arguelles and Pamela Moreno here – Part I, Part II, and Part III.  Thank you ASF Foundation, Film Club, Upper chool Library, and Repentino. for allowing and supporting an event that allowed an opportunity to see what goes on, on and off the screen.

screen-shot-2016-10-15-at-7-57-58-am

Next up, the first initial look at how the current newly opened DocsDF Documentary Film Festival is having on Mexico.

 

 

 

 

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Solidarity “Trumps” Quality

Posted on October 3, 2016 by Harry Brake

screen-shot-2016-10-03-at-3-49-46-amSolidarity. You very rarely see, feel, or understand that word when it comes to social events on the weekend, at least in it’s truest sense. Yet, Monday September 26, 2016, indeed despite being the biggest Presidential Debate disappointment I have ever seen, and perhaps true to the Saturday Night Live’s call of being the biggest joke,

 

in a larger scenario, it was no laughing matter.

As the days unfold, we STILL have bouts of leaked garbage from both candidates, Hilary’s leaking of her true feeling of Bernie and supporters,

 

as well as Trump’s plan to address the issue of Bill Clinton’s infedlity as well as his lack of disclosure when it has come to financial transactions (or the lack of), and more

really, one begins to realize before the debates, but exemplified through them, that this has become less of a country-character test and more of a circus put on by various political parties. Even with a declared winner, the disgust at a government flawed and producing even two more flawed products is a dismal look forward indeed.

As I am already stating the same obvious pattern and rhetoric we witnessed at the first presidential debate, one thing would not have been clear unless you were at Pinche Gringo on September 26th.

In arriving at Pinche Gringo at 7:40ish, a truly amazing site greeted you. Reporters from all over the world, reporters like Carrie Kahn, local business owners like Lucky Dog’s  Cynthia Kaplan, Democrats Abroad volunteers (and yes, they are gracious enough to repeatedly emphasize the fact that they support ANY party as long as you are voting) and to top it off, afterwards a three individual panel that broke down the disappointments and those meanings to everyone at large, ALL of THIS – amid of course a heaping plate of food that carried everyone through the night (or was it the SALUD! every time Trump mentioned the word Mexico?) – one thing begins to dawn on you.

The election, as disappointing as it is with the newest revelations of cheap gossip and bad tabloids that bring itself to our doorstep every day, one thing still remains. The power that lies in the numbers, each of us standing together, whether from the United States, Mexico, Latin American, South American the multitudes that were around all of us and experiencing this loss, this heartbreak, and the disappointment we witnessed, it mattered and it helped us smile, weather through this three ring event, and it mattered.

When a restaurant, or any public institution, puts forth the effort to create a public space and make it a meeting place of ideas, no matter what ideas they are, and to give everyone a chance for their opinions to be voiced, heard, and reflected upon, you can actually rise about the turkeys and yes, feel like an eagle. Pinche Gringo served as a forum for so many people of various backgrounds, political arenas, and diverse voices, they made it possible to get through one of the ugliest debates ever, thanks to the commiserating people that surrounded us.

The days following the debate, yes, it is as if returning from camp where no one truly understands how you felt at that high around so many – there is just this buzz of the moment when you come back to the dirty, ugly reality of wading through so much garbage. The obvious disappointments still hung in the air –

-Hilary succumbed to Trump’s calling out on issues that has nothing to do with the future of this country.

-When Hillary could have gone high she remained low, sucked into a vaccuum of addressing Trump’s bait and hook, wasting valuable time that could have been redirected.

-Trump indeed calling on Hilary’s discrepancies and lack of motivation to move forward in so many years and yet, Trump’s holier than thou “I did this, I received this endorsement, I did, this, I did this…” after awhile the noise resembles the Charlie Brown teacher we had witnessed for so many years.

The silver lining is the realization, that the future, and the pressure that is put on whatever comical candidate is elected, the power resides in each of us. The future, whatever it holds, remains a long one for the public to not stop at getting their voice out, but for pushing that candidate, and pushing that candidate HARD towards a better future, as we see what the candidates are “able” to do on their own. It seems it is very true that hardly any matter relies on the correct candidate, as there does not seem to be one. However, there does remain the conviction to move the country in the right direction, but so many people that we witnessed surrounding us that first debate evening.

It is a gift of enormous proportion to have an institution at Pinche Gringo provide the opportunity to have such a large number of individuals to air these disappointments and find solace in the power of numbers in each of us. Despite the continuing controversies, secrets, discoveries worthy of the worst soap opera, within each other we continue to find the hope and strength to support each other in the very long road that lies in front of us despite which candidate (still difficult to say President for either candidate) is chosen.

The biggest disappointment is each of us, here internationally and those domestically, being represented as Americans at the mercy of those that do not reflect the true values of a United States that respects others, has tried to do better and walk away from the disastrous havoc from past mistakes, and become a better nation thanks to nations around us.  Again, the opportunity to vent these frustrations, the opportunity to point to any hope of restoring the better values of being a UNITED STATES with the support of so many from outside the United States, seemed a much better possibility thanks to the chance to be around so many voices of varying backgrounds. Thank you Pinche Gringo for offering whatever possible bright spot that could come out of a futile and hopeless debate. You did good, way good!

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