The Wall of Mexico

The Wall of Mexico, an intriguing socio-political drama-comedy released in 2019, captivates the audience with its exceptional cast featuring Jackson Rathbone, Esai Morales, and Marisol Sacramento. Chewy on irony and thick with allegory, this movie is a thought-provoking examination of wealth, privilege, and the often contentious topic of borders. The film is directed by Zachary Cotler and Magdalena Zyzak, who skilfully intertwine satire, philosophy, and magical realism, exhibiting an eccentric look at contemporary social issues through a highly symbolic and metaphorical lens.

The film’s protagonist is Don, a young man portrayed convincingly by Jackson Rathbone, known for his roles in Twilight, The Last Airbender, and more. A charismatic and hardworking man, Don is hired as a handyman by the wealthy Arista family in a rural, isolated, and luxuriant estate in Mexico. However, the Aristas are no ordinary family. They're wealthy landowners who have been blessed with a unique well whose water remarkably has peculiar properties. Soon enough, Don, like everyone who works for the family, falls under the charisma of the Aristas and their precious well.

The patriarch of the Arista family, Henry Arista, brought to life by Esai Morales, a remarkable actor acclaimed for his performances in L.A. Confidential, NYPD Blue, and Ozark, to name a few. Henry plays a mesmerizingly complex and fascinating individual as he straddles his role as the family's stern guardian and the defender of the special well. It's under his instructions that the family decides to build an enormous wall to protect their well from what they perceive as the insidious infiltrations.

Marisol Sacramento, a relatively new face in Hollywood, delivers a notable performance as Ximena Arista. Along with her sister, she adds a layer of mystery and charm to the storyline. The Arista sisters' intriguing allure and the well's surreal properties quickly entangle Don, and he finds himself drawn more and more into the symbolic web woven around the Arista's lavish but secluded life.

Ironically, the film neatly transposes the divisive topic of borders and walls onto the natural world. The critical essence of the film is taken up by the act of physically constructing 'a wall', but this wall serves as a powerful metaphor throughout. The Aristas' resolution to build the wall is more than what it seems on the surface. It pushes the audience to question the boundaries and borders we put up, both literally and metaphorically. It makes one wonder about the perceived threats from 'the other’ and how they shape our actions and decisions.

The Wall of Mexico skillfully blends its multi-pronged narrative with elements of humor, drama, and mythical influences, making for delightful viewing while also encouraging intellectual engagement. The dialogues are at times philosophical, the cinematography exquisite, while the background score adds the right notes of suspense and enchantment.

While the film offers an engaging story and performance, it shines brightest as an allegorical study, rewarding viewers who appreciate subtlety and connotation. It delivers a symbolic message about the consequences of boundaries, the distribution of resources, and the impact of wealth and privilege.

The Wall of Mexico is not just a simple storyline about a wealthy family and their handyman; it's a mirror held up to society, highlighting issues of class, greed, and exceptionalism. As the story unfolds, viewers are left to mull over the harrowing disparity between the rich and the poor, the privileged and the oppressed, and how the powerful will go to lengths to protect what they think is being threatened.

The Wall of Mexico makes daring social commentary through its satirical premise, adding a fresh spin to the discourse around power and wealth in society. At the same time, the narrative entices the audience with compelling performances and a captivating storyline. The movie, in its enigmatic way, is a thoughtful exploration that pushes boundaries and asks hard questions, ensuring a memorable cinematic experience.