Cast
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Gael García Bernal
as Padre Amaro
Ana Claudia Talancón
as Amelia
Sancho Gracia
as Padre Benito Díaz
Angélica Aragón
as Augustina Sanjuanera
Luisa Huertas
as Dionisia
Ernesto Gómez Cruz
as Obispo
Gastón Melo
as Martín
Damián Alcázar
as Padre Natalio Pérez
Andrés Montiel
as Rubén de la Rosa
Gerardo Moscoso
as Doc
Alfredo González
as Viejo
Verónica Langer
as Amparito
Pedro Armendáriz Jr.
as El Presidente Municipal Gordo
Lorenzo de Rodas
as Don Paco de la Rosa
Roger Nevares
as Padre Galván
Crew
Director
- Carlos Carrera
Producer
- Daniel Birman Ripstein
- Atahualpa Lichy
- José María Morales
- Claudia Becker
- Scot Evans
- Alfredo Ripstein Jr.
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Crime of Padre Amaro examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Carlos Carrera brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Crime of Padre Amaro took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.8 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 118 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 170 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 46 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Crime of Padre Amaro shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 13 Minutes, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Crime of Padre Amaro offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Paradise Found and Young Adam explore similar territory, The Crime of Padre Amaro stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 1, 2002
- Runtime: 1h 58m
- Budget: $1,800,000
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