Bruno Santamaría Razo’s debut novel, "Six Months in a Pink and Blue Building" ("Seis meses en el edificio rosa con azul"), has won the prestigious Ojo award at the 24th Morelia Film Festival (FICM), concluding on October 25. Recognized by Variety as a "lush, poetic film rooted in memories," it marked a significant milestone as the first Mexican feature to be included in Cannes’ Critics Week in two decades.
The international jury at Morelia, chaired by J.A. Bayona ("Society of the Snow"), commended the coming-of-age narrative for its "fearless engagement with the past, transforming pain into a manifestation of pure, unrestricted beauty."
This deeply personal film is inspired by Santamaría Razo’s own childhood, focusing on the pivotal year he turned eleven when his father received an HIV diagnosis. Additionally, "Six Months…" secured the Audience Award for fiction films, signaling its strong potential at the box office.
Alejandro Ramírez, CEO of Cinépolis and FICM president, described this year’s festival as a particularly vibrant celebration of Mexican cinema. It showcased many of the country’s most celebrated filmmakers and actors, including Guillermo del Toro, Alfonso Cuarón, and Gael García Bernal.
James Gray was also present to present his film "Paper Tiger," while Bayona showcased "Beyond Society," a documentary detailing the production of "Society of the Snow." Festival director Daniel Michel highlighted the diversity of stories presented, reflecting the multifaceted experiences across Mexico.
In addition to Santamaría Razo’s triumph, Joaquin del Paso’s "The Garden We Dreamed," about a Haitian family’s quest for a better life, received both a Special Mention and an award for Best Cinematography, awarded to Gökhan Tiryaki.
"Sad Girlz," recognized for its authentic performances exploring the complexities of modern teen life, was awarded the Casa Wabis-Escine award for Best Fiction Debut.
Other notable recognitions included the Best Director award going to Nicolás Pereda for "Everything Else Is Noise," with Teresa Sánchez winning Best Actress for her role as a musician in the same film. Sam Louwyck received Best Actor for his role in Nathalia Acevedo’s “Beauty Salon.”
Michel praised the festival’s ability to showcase filmmakers from various backgrounds, all contributing unique perspectives and narratives.
Next year, the festival plans to shift its dates to coincide with the Day of the Dead celebrations, setting the stage for its landmark 25th edition with high-profile guests and engaging retrospectives.
Among the festival highlights, the documentary "Naza," directed by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor, drew significant attention and fanfare, winning an audience award after a moving screening. The film’s previous accolades include the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival and widespread acclaim.
In the realm of social advocacy, Cuauhtémoc Cárdenas Batel, the festival’s vice president, emphasized the need for dialogue and peace, particularly regarding the complicated Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which the documentary addresses.
Guillermo del Toro, present to reintroduce his classic "Pan’s Labyrinth," spoke passionately about current societal issues, expressing concern about the moral and philosophical state of the world today. He appealed to the younger generation to strive for change amidst adversity.
In collaboration with Cannes Critics’ Week, this year’s festival featured a selection of films previously showcased in the French festival’s sidebar, further cementing the ties between Mexican and French cinema. During the event, the French ambassador to Mexico honored Alfonso Cuarón for his significant contributions to contemporary cinema, recognizing the cultural exchange fostered by his work.
Reflecting on the state of the film industry and the socio-political landscape, Cuarón eloquently stated that cinema transcends mere narrative; it is an art form with its own rhythm and essence, and he remains hopeful for a brighter future spurred by the voices of youth.
24th Morelia Film Festival ‘Ojo’ Award Winners:
- Best Feature Film: "Six Months in a Pink and Blue Building," Bruno Santamaria Razo
- Special Mention: "The Garden We Dreamed," Joaquin del Paso
- Best Debut Feature: "Sad Girlz," Fernanda Tovar
- Best Director: Nicolás Pereda, "Everything Else is Noise"
- Best Screenplay: Joaquín Ruano, "Us"
- Best Cinematography: Gökhan Tiryaki, "The Garden We Dreamed"
- Best Actress: Teresa Sánchez, "Everything Else is Noise"
- Best Actor: Sam Louwyck, "Beauty Salon"
- Best Documentary: "Forensita," Pablo Vaca
- Best Fiction Short: "Cuerda Manual," Gustavo Obregon
- Best Documentary Short: "Voces en el bosque," Teresa Camous Guerrero, Arturo López Pio
- Best Animated Short: "Cuna de lobos," Emilia Schettino Bustamante
- International Audience Award: "Naza," Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor
- National Audience Award: "Six Months in a Pink and Blue Building," Bruno Santamaria Razo
- ECAM Award: Santiago Maza (“Black Shine”)
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Morelia Film Festival Prizes: ‘Pink and Blue Building’ Wins Big
