El Norte - Emma G.

This film highlighted the harsh reality of immigration to America; one filled with challenges, dangers, and deception. Although America is viewed as the land of opportunity, actually achieving the American Dream is difficult for many, especially immigrants who are not offered the same protections as citizens. 

Enrique and Rosa, the two main characters in the film arrive in America as immigrants after losing their father to a violent Guatemalan army; however, the journey to el Norte wasn't the sole challenge Rosa and Enrique faced after losing their father. Upon arriving to America, Rosa and Enrique can't escape their past; Enrique runs from near deportations while working as Rosa worries about seeking medical treatment in fear of being deported. Rosa's hesitation eventually led to her death, as the disease she contracted while crossing the border had progressed too far. Just before she dies, Rosa is speaking to Enrique and wonders where they consider their "home." Guatemala isn't their home; the government killed their family. America isn't their home; the government doesn't give them rights and protections. Right before passing, Rosa thinks that her "home" may be found in the afterlife. 

Enrique--in an optimistic fashion--believes that life will get better, yet the beginning scenes in Guatemala can be paralleled to what Enrique continues to experience in el Norte. Prior to his death, Enrique's father complains of being reduced to only his "strong arms."At the end of the film, Enrique is shown begging for work in the fields where they were hiring those with "strong arms." Such a strong connection between the beginning and end of the movie makes the audience question, were all the hardships Enrique experienced worth it? Was any progress made? Enrique was unable to achieve the American Dream, similar to many (especially immigrants) who were given the false promise that America is the land of opportunity. Even with legal documentation, those of a non-white background experience discrimination as evidenced by the "Chicano" from the restaurant in the film. Although Enrique was able to escape Guatemala, he was unable to escape his ethical/racial background in America: the land of the "free."



Comments

  1. Catherine BolzendahlMarch 6, 2023 at 3:24 PM

    Powerful observations on important messages in the film! I think these are pivotal moments that highlight the underlying narrative. I would love to hear more of your thoughts on the answers to the questions you pose and also to use the these key moments as a jumping off point for your own perspective.

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