When the Mountains Tremble
When the Mountains Tremble

Movie spotlight

When the Mountains Tremble

1983
Movie
83 min
Spanish

A documentary on the war between the Guatemalan military and the Mayan population, with first hand accounts by Nobel Peace Prize winner Rigoberta Menchú.

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Director: Pamela YatesGenres: Documentary, History, War

Plot Summary

This powerful documentary offers an intimate look at the life of Rigoberta Menchú, a Guatemalan Quiché woman, and her people's struggle against oppression during the brutal civil war. It chronicles her journey from a peasant farmer to a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, highlighting the systemic violence and human rights abuses she and her community faced. The film serves as a testament to the resilience of indigenous people and their fight for justice and cultural survival.

Critical Reception

When the Mountains Tremble was critically acclaimed for its raw portrayal of political unrest and its focus on a powerful, personal narrative. It brought the atrocities of the Guatemalan Civil War to international attention and was lauded for giving voice to the marginalized. While its subject matter is harrowing, its impact and importance were widely recognized by critics and audiences alike.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its powerful and deeply personal examination of the Guatemalan Civil War.

  • Recognized for bringing the struggles of indigenous communities to global awareness.

  • Commended for its unblinking look at human rights abuses and resistance.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's emotional impact and its importance in understanding historical conflicts and human rights issues. Many found Rigoberta Menchú's story to be deeply moving and inspiring.

Awards & Accolades

Awarded the Golden Hugo at the Chicago International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film was made and shown in secret within Guatemala during the height of the civil war, with screenings often taking place under dangerous conditions.

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