Purgatorio

Rodrigo Reyes' riveting film is a provocative meditation that captures the brutal beauty of the U.S./ Mexico border.

Reyes' provocative essay film re-imagines the Mexico/U.S. border as a mythical place comparable to Dante's purgatory. Leaving politics aside, he takes a fresh look at the brutal beauty of the border and the people caught in its spell. By capturing a stunning mosaic of compelling characters and broken landscapes that live on the US/Mexico border, the filmmaker reflects on the flaws of human nature and the powerful absurdities of the modern world. An unusual border film, in the auteur tradition of camera-stylo, Purgatorio ultimately becomes a fable of humanity, an epic and visceral experience with powerful and lingering images. Winner of several awards including the Michael Moore Award and the Jury Award at the New Orleans Film Festival.