The Cine las Americas film series is bringing Mexican director Jorge Michel Grau’s first feature film to the Alamo Drafthouse Ritz screen on Monday, June 27 at 7:00 p.m. Following the high standards set by contemporary Mexican cinema, Somos lo que hay (We are what we are) makes Hollywood look like a child’s playground.
Somos lo que hay is the gruesome tale of a family struggling to survive amidst the chaos of present day Mexico City after the father is found dead in the streets. Quickly understanding the implications of such an event, family tensions arise as a new leader is sought to provide their meals… of human flesh.
Twists and turns are sure to occur as Grau takes us winding through a complex story of a family rooted in tradition amongst a society that is in a constant state of flux between development and deterioration. In a complex circle of violence, questions of fight or flight plague the evolving family’s bond.
Like many Mexican stories, this tale can be one that you adapt as your own. “My aim is to decode my surroundings. To try to describe myself through this story; to discover my ambitions, my motivations, and my values. To find through the screen the tools with which to build my discourse,” Grau said.
Opting to use 35 mm instead of the highly prevalent digital HD, Grau offers a look at cannibalism in profound light of raw cinematic beauty. Somos lo que hay seems to be an exciting and refreshing change after a year of boring Hollywood hits. Hopefully a special accompanying menu at the Alamo will be offered.
Watch the trailer for Somos lo que hay below.
The Alamo Drafthouse Ritz is located at 320 E. 6th Street in Austin, Texas. 18+ are welcome. Children 6 and up will be allowed only with a parent or guardian. Advance tickets can be purchased here.