Mary Ellen Davis
Canada 1996, 52 minutes, 16mm
Office national du film du Canada (ONF) www.onf.ca
Version française: http://www.onf.ca/collection/films/fiche/?id=33162
English version: http://www.nfb.ca/collection/films/fiche/?id=33175
Photos: © Enrique Torres Agaton / O.N.F.

Mexico is a land of sun and a land of violence, according to Mario Rojas Alba, a physician and former member of Congress, forced to flee to Montreal as a political refugee after surviving a brutal physical assault. During a cautious trip home, he guides us through the workings of political repression and violence in Mexico.

The resulting film reveals the darker side of this vast country which became Canada's official trading partner in January 1994 under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) - an accord criticized by a great many Mexicans, especially the indigenous people of Chiapas, who rose in revolt, demanding a more just and democratic society.

On the Day of the Dead, families and friends remember those who have "disappeared"; widows lay flowers on the graves of husbands slain for opposing the ruling party. By their side, Mario Rojas reaffirms his commitment to a peaceful transition towards true democracy. He also proclaims his love for his country, where, despite the political uncertaintly, "the flowers still bloom each spring".