Quinceanera Movie

There are very few movies that are produced and released to the general public that explore the culture and heritage of Mexican-American people.  There are even fewer that could be considered a Quinceanera movie and are based on the anticipation that young girls feel about this important milestone. 

In 2006 Sony pictures released a Quinceanera movie that received world acclaim and became one of the most popular films in the history of the Sundance Film festival. It was written and directed by Richard Glatzer and Wash Westmoreland and the cast included Emily Rios, Chalo Gonzalez, Jesse Garcia, David W. Ross, and Jason L. Wood.

Quinceanera told the story of a young Hispanic girl who was excited and looking forward to her approaching fifteenth birthday, until one day she tries on her quinceanera gown and it no longer fits. Magdalena soon finds out that the dress-fitting mishap was due to her unexpected pregnancy. As the preparations for her big day continue, Magdalena knows that her secret will be revealed and that her highly religious father will most definitely not approve.

Magdalena is soon deserted by her baby’s father and shunned from her family’s home.  She is sent to live with her uncle Thomas and her often troubled gay cousin Carlos. All three are unhappy with Magdalena’s arrival and feel her presence is just one more burden to carry. However, over time and as Magdalena’s pregnancy becomes more noticeable, they, together as a group of outsiders, discover what it means to be a family. Pulling together they support each other through life’s struggles, lessons and disappointments.

This Quinceanera movie took an in-depth look at what happens when teenage sexuality, financial troubles, ancient tradition and modern lifestyles collide. Full of touching characters, lasting friendships and unforgettable moments, this movie was haled as being “exceptionally memorable” by many of its viewers.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 20th, 2009 at 11:50 am and is filed under Quinceanera. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.