This isn't a classic by any means, but it's surely a moving picture that perfectly displays the best aspects of Mexican's classic cinema.
The story is in my opinion ahead of it's time as it deals with betrayal, passion, and murder. Back in the 50's, Mexican cinema wouldn't explore those kind of stories because theater influence was huge. Also, it deals with the problematic of how Mexicans migrate into the USA searching for the golden opportunity. In those days, it wasn't really a problem or a huge social preoccupation but the movie deals with it as it was a huge tragedy for the family. There's also a love story told through flashbacks from Lamarque's character. She tells her daughter how she met her father and how he proposed to her. Then, she tells the sadness when he had to leave to the USA. Oh but not everything is nice as there's a "black" past and murder intentions.
The narrative in the story is also pretty innovative because the important parts are told through flashbacks; a technique that was in development in Mèxico at the time.
The movie has great direction mainly because most camera angles were attractive and had an edge. The exteriors were beautiful and add something more to the movie. Also, the cinematography is pretty good for a Black and White movie.
Libertad Lamarque delivers a fine, solid, and moving performance. She was a gem in all the sense of the word. Extremely talented. She was also very tender.
The musical moments are beautiful and display another "key" element from Mexican classic cinema. I miss some of those moments.
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