Octavio-valdes

During the 1970 to 1985 period of Mexican Government the national film industry was on crisis, most film directors found themselves unsupported by the Mexican institute of cinematography (then run by the ministry of state) and the increasing financial crisis made possible to a few producers making their projects work. Only those with great recourses were able to make movies, Television stations, intellectuals to name a few. From what often has been called the dark years of Mexican cinema (due to the number of commercial bad movies produced and the favoritism to certain privileged producers and directors) some really good movies made somehow the way to the screen, El Héroe desconocido is one of them. Set on the fictitious town of Valleverde, a rural backward community ,tells the story of good-for-nothing Rodolfo (Rafael Inclán) who inspired by the rising of a bronze statue of singer Pedro Infante makes up stories about his great-grandfather in order to turn him into a history hero, collect money to rise a bronze statue and rip off the entire town, in the process the town awakes from their torpor and get a new sense of pride, collaboration and identity. A breakthrough performance by Inclán, who is often identified with foul language and sexual content comedies, manages to stay true to his comedy roots bringing a tender and in times moving sense to his character. An amazing story based on Miguel Alemán´s novel perfectly portraits the traditional calm towns of Mexico. A very funny beautiful movie, one of Mexico's greatest.

I saw this short on a feature length short film reel and this is truly one of the highlights. A very smart adaptation of the short story by mexican police/political novelist Paco Ignacio Taibo II, doesn´t bother on following the plot religiously leaving the characteristical details of the writer out, some of Taibo´s fans may complain about this but the general atmosphere of northern Mexico makes up for it. the downside is that some cultural oriented references will be lost to non mexican viewers. A great performance by Jesus Ochoa whose eclectic acting style makes him one of the most malleable actors in mexican cinema. Striking final scene, realistic dialogue and bright production makes this one the best adaptation of any of Taibo´s work(and I really enjoyed Cosa Facil).