Before the Rooster Crows

Before the Rooster Crows is a gripping and emotional film that tackles intense themes of belonging, family, and survival - all set against the backdrop of an unforgiving, yet captivating, Puerto Rican rural landscape. The film premiered in 2016 and quickly garnered international acclaim for its raw and realistic portrayal of life in a secluded and underprivileged Puerto Rican community. Its young star Miranda Purcell, together with a profound performance from Kisha Tikina Burgos, adds depth and authenticity to this gut-wrenching journey.

The film offers a close-up look at young Carmín's life, a role masterfully portrayed by Miranda Purcell, as she navigates through a harsh world far away from the naive and carefree existence that children her age typically enjoy. Her living conditions, driven by poverty and isolation, have robbed her of her childhood innocence, pushing her toward a bleak road lined with harsh realities and misfortune.

Having been abandoned by her mother, Carmín finds her only semblance of a mother figure in Julia, a character brilliantly crafted by Kisha Tikina Burgos. The actress delivers a commanding performance as the stoic yet vulnerable woman burdened with the responsibility of taking care of her young niece along with her own children. The dynamics between Julia and Carmín are one of the film's pivotal aspects, offering a deep dive into the complexities and tensions associated with their unconventional family setup.

The film's subdued color palette mirrors the bleakness and hopelessness permeating the lives and surroundings of the lead characters. The director skillfully utilizes the Puerto Rican landscape and the community's structures as vital elements of the narrative, almost as if they were additional characters in the story, contributing to the overall mood of the movie.

Steeped in realism, Before the Rooster Crows serves as a stark portrayal of the community's systemic impoverishment, their struggle with domestic issues, and the vicious cycle of violence and despair that infests their lives. While the story revolves around Carmín and Julia, it also involves a broader range of characters that make up this community, each with their predicaments and personal battles.

Despite the solemn undertones of the film, it is not devoid of hope and resilience. Amid the overwhelming despair, we see snippets of the characters' endurance and their desperate attempts to grapple with their unfortunate circumstances. The power of human spirit seeps through the cracks, punctuating the dark narrative with slivers of hope and determination.

Miranda Purcell’s performance as Carmín is both engaging and heartbreaking. Her portrayal of the adolescent girl, scarred yet resilient, thrust into adult responsibilities, and forced to reckon with moral dilemmas, stirs deep emotions. She effortlessly commands attention with her raw expressions and nuanced acting, making Carmín a character that viewers can sympathize with despite her prickly exterior and tough demeanor.

Meanwhile, Kisha Tikina Burgos, as the disillusioned yet dutiful Julia, adds layers of complexity and emotion to the narrative. She excellently portrays the character with an impressive steadiness that is frequently interrupted by moments of vulnerability and inner turmoil. The bond between Julia and Carmín is portrayed beautifully, showing an underlying affection beneath the surface tension and conflicts.

Before The Rooster Crows also sheds light on the sociocultural issues plaguing rural Puerto Rico, driving home a powerful message about the impacts of neglect and inequality on individuals, especially the young and vulnerable. Through its multifaceted characters and thoughtfully written narrative, the film delves deep into the disturbing realities, while also managing to keep the faint echoes of hope and redemption alive.

In conclusion, Before the Rooster Crows is a haunting yet captivating film that should not be missed. From its impeccable acting, compelling narrative, to the jogged portrayal of an unforgiving reality, it is a riveting cinematic experience that leaves a lasting impact long after the credits roll. Although it is a film that tells a story about despair and survival of its characters, it extends beyond that individual narrative to shed light on the community as a whole. Giving the audience not just a story, but powerful, unforgettable visuals that are sure to strike a chord with every viewer.