Santa Mesa [HD]

Moving meditation on a child adapting to a new culture
Santa Mesa is one of those films where you wish it could go on longer. It's quite an impressive debut for Ron Morales, a former camera/crew member on such films such as the Departed and Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist. He clearly picked up some major soft skills as he explores the journey of 12-year-old Hector, born and raised in the US, to a strange new land - the Philippines - where he can't speak the native language (Tagalog) and lives with an older relative who can't speak English.

Morales successfully avoids the common cliches of culture clash and poking fun of differences. Rather, through Hector's eyes he gently takes us through a gritty new community where he must learn to survive by choosing his friends, mentors and relationships. One of the main characters is the background of poverty along the railroad tracks where Hector now must call home - a constant reminder of the challenges and noise that Hector must filter out and overcome.

The film's...

A MOVING STORY
This film was very touching and moving to me as it followed the life experiences of a young boy who left the only place he called home to be introduced to a world unknown on the other side of the planet. Many of us have been through experiences such as these at one point in time in our lives. I loved how the producers were able to make you place yourself in Hector's shoes, the star of the movie and feel many of the frustrations he learned to overcome.

To me, Santa Mesa was about making the best of what you have in life and where you are in life to grasp who you really are in this great, big world.

touching
A very touching coming-of-age story. Poignant without being melodramatic. Beautiful cinematography, terrific performances by the teenage actors. Recommended!

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