Movie spotlight
La Mission
Growing up in the Mission district of San Francisco, Che Rivera has always had to be tough to survive. He's a powerful man respected throughout the Mission barrio for his masculinity and his strength, as well as for his hobby building beautiful lowrider cars. A reformed inmate and recovering alcoholic, Che has worked hard to redeem his life and do right by his pride and joy: his only son, Jes, whom he has raised on his own after the death of his wife. Che's path to redemption is tested, however, when he discovers Jes is gay. To survive his neighborhood, Che has always lived with his fists. To survive as a complete man, he'll have to embrace a side of himself he's never shown.
Insights
Plot Summary
In the heart of San Francisco's Mission District, Che Rivera, a proud ex-convict and single father, struggles to connect with his teenage son, Jesse. Che's world unravels when he discovers Jesse's secret relationship with Lena, a white girl from a wealthy family, and the family's hidden past. As tensions escalate, Che must confront his own prejudices and a violent history to protect his son and maintain his neighborhood's integrity. This powerful drama explores themes of family, culture, masculinity, and the challenges of bridging generational and societal divides.
Critical Reception
La Mission received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its raw authenticity, powerful performances, and unflinching portrayal of a specific cultural milieu. While some found the narrative occasionally melodramatic, the film was widely commended for its emotional depth and timely social commentary.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its authentic portrayal of Latino culture and family dynamics.
Benjamin Bratt's performance as Che Rivera was frequently highlighted as a standout.
Noted for its emotional impact and exploration of difficult social issues.
Google audience: Google users appreciated the film's authentic depiction of family struggles and cultural identity within the Mission District. Many highlighted the compelling performances and the film's ability to evoke strong emotions, finding it a moving and relevant story.
Awards & Accolades
Won the Audience Award for Best Dramatic Feature at the Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ+ Film Festival in 2010.
Fun Fact
The film was directed by Peter Bratt, and his brother, Benjamin Bratt, starred in and also produced the film. The story is partly inspired by the directors' own upbringing in the Mission District of San Francisco.
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