Review of El Norte (1983) by Adrian B — 12 Jul 2011

Enrique and his sister, Rosa, are Indians native to Guatemala. Their father works on a plantation in the mountains but is also part of a rebellion group against the government. Sadly, this rebellion group is found out by army officials and is ambushed one night, in which their father is killed. In addition, Enrique ventures out to find his father, only to see his decapitated head hanging from a tree and to be attacked by a soldier, only to kill him in the end. As a result, Enrique, Rosa, and their mother are now threats to the government. Tragically, their mother is taken, and the two them go into hiding, only to decide that immigrating up north (El Norte) to the United States via Mexico is the best option.

The film is a fascinating and emotional examination of the life of immigrant escaping possible deadly consequences in their home country. We, the viewer, examine the heart-wrenching process of escaping to the United States and adjusting to new circumstances of their homes and English. It is an honest and sad representation of the immigrants heading to the United States. Cinematography and present day setting add to the assets of this film. Interestingly, the score heard at approximate at 35 minute point, as well as the end, of this film is same exact score used in "Platoon" three years later. I suppose that Oliver Stone found this score to be a perfect match for his frightening Vietnam War movie. I just hope he also credited "El Norte's" director in the process. My assumption is he did.