EVEN THE RAIN/Austin Film Society

A powerful, complex, film in a film which we both loved.  Shot in Bolivia, directed by a woman, indigenous extras treated with dignity and paid for with materials they need (thank-you Chale for your 4 page print-out). This is the story of indigenous people being exploited by the privatization of utilities when Bolivia's economy was about to tank.  Women defying soldiers and refusing to allow them to take the water from the well they dug with their own hands for their children. A fabulous indigenous actor (non-professional) boldly speaking out when the cattle call is dismissed abruptly and all of the extras are told to leave.  Not only does he turn this around he and his daughter get starring roles!  Tormenting scenes of indigenous people being treated brutally (think Nazis) by the Spaniards in the film being made.  I've missed seeing  Gael Garcia Bernal  (AMORES  PERROS, MOTORCYCLE DIARIES) and was delighted to watch him in a film once again.  This is a moving and important film.  It speaks to our current times of corporate greed and a global call for change.