Movie spotlight
A manipulative mama deftly manages the life of her homosexual son so that he can have his cake and eat it too. A woman of means, she does this by allowing her son, a doctor, to tryst in her home with his lover. Putting her son's happiness above all else, she then arranges a marriage of convenience to a woman.
In Guadalajara, Mexico, the wealthy and traditional Doña Herlinda wants her son, Roberto, to marry a woman and produce an heir. However, Roberto is secretly in love with a male professor, Jorge. To appease his mother and maintain his facade, Roberto agrees to date a young woman, Olga, while continuing his relationship with Jorge. The film humorously navigates the complexities of familial expectations, societal norms, and hidden desires.
Doña Herlinda and Her Son was critically acclaimed for its witty and insightful portrayal of social hypocrisy and evolving sexual mores in Mexico. It was praised for its lighthearted yet poignant exploration of a taboo subject for its time, resonating with audiences for its humor and emotional depth.
A sharp and humorous critique of Mexican middle-class values and repression.
Navigates complex themes of homosexuality and societal pressure with sensitivity and wit.
Praised for its engaging performances and clever storytelling.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's blend of comedy and drama, appreciating its groundbreaking portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes within a Mexican context and its insightful social commentary.
Awarded the FIPRESCI Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival.
The film was a significant box office success in Mexico and gained international recognition, contributing to a broader discussion about LGBTQ+ representation in cinema.
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Doña Herlinda and Her Son, the 1985 film from writer/director Jaime Humberto Hermosillo, is not only a funny, warm gay romantic comedy, it also marks the first time that a Latin American film depicted gay relationships positively. I enjoyed...