**Courage: A Film About Life**
Rubén Rojo Aura has always been surrounded by the silver screen. Born to actors Rubén Rojo Pinto and Marta Aura, he quickly absorbed the challenges and rewards of the cinematic world. After 15 years in the industry, he made his directorial debut with “Courage,” a deeply personal and cathartic family project.
“Courage” blurs the line between fact and fiction. While it is a fictional film, the characters are inspired by the lives of Rubén’s mother and brother, who play themselves in the movie. Rojo Aura aimed to keep viewers questioning which parts of the story were real and which were imagined, seeking to provide an emotionally rich experience rather than certainty.
The film tells the story of Alma, played by Marta Aura, a 76-year-old actress facing blindness and the potential loss of her career. Her son Alejandro returns home as he battles alcoholism, creating a heartfelt family drama. According to Rojo Aura, the movie is about honesty and emotional vulnerability, capturing universal themes of human relationships, particularly between a mother and son, while touching upon work-related anxieties that resonate with audiences worldwide.
“Courage” intertwines three layers: a fictional narrative, a theatrical storyline, and a documentary element. For Rubén, it was a profound learning experience, offering insights into his capabilities and limitations as a filmmaker. Moreover, the project brought him closer to his family, allowing him to explore their depths beyond their roles as characters in a film.
Marta Aura was passionate about representing older characters on screen, particularly in Mexico, and broke stereotypes about aging. Her portrayal left a significant impact on younger audiences at film festivals, highlighting the universal nature of human emotions, regardless of age. Sadly, she passed away in 2022, making this theme even more poignant.
The film premiered at the 37th International Film Festival in Guadalajara, where it received numerous accolades, including the FIPRESCI Prize and the Mezcal Award for Best Actress in a Mexican Feature for Marta Aura. After its festival circuit, “Courage” made its national theatrical debut on November 28th.
For Rojo Aura, filmmaking is a therapeutic process, allowing him to explore personal truths and connect with the universal experiences of family and passion for one’s work.
**Related News: Cinema and Television in Mexico – Dec 2023 Update**
In recent news, the Mexican film and television industry is undergoing exciting developments with a particular focus on enhancing diversity and representation. New initiatives are being launched to support emerging talent, particularly from underrepresented communities. These endeavors aim to tell a broader range of stories that reflect the country’s multifaceted culture.
Recent collaborations between streaming services and local filmmakers have opened avenues for Mexican content to reach a global audience. This expansion reflects a growing recognition of the creativity and talent within Mexico’s entertainment industry, as well as an increasing demand for diverse narratives that resonate with viewers worldwide.
Furthermore, festivals like the Morelia International Film Festival and the Los Cabos International Film Festival continue to spotlight Mexican talent, offering platforms for filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with international markets. As Mexico’s cinematic landscape evolves, it promises to bring fresh, compelling stories to screens both at home and abroad.