Marimbas Del Infienro And Polvo Analysis

Julio Hernández Cordón’s films Marimbas Del Infierno and Polvo reflect the neoliberal period in Guatemala by illustrating how the profound digressions from the period of nationalism affected everyday life. During the nationalist era of the early to mid 20th, Guatemala gained a strong sense of national identity All things traditional and national became popular. The onset of the neoliberal period, however, would drastically change many of these consistencies. The effects of these changes are clearly illustrated in Marimbas Del Infienro and Polvo. Individuals were burdened with profound ambiguities as they lost a sense of belonging and function in society. Guatemala gained a clear sense of national identity during the period of nationalism. At their core, …show more content…
Much of this can be attributed with the effects of the rise of neoliberalism. However, these conditions that the characters were dealt with (due to neoliberal progression) caused them come into contact with people they normally wouldn’t interact with. Don Alfonso lost his family and would eventually team up with young man from the slums who just escaped prison and a gynecologist who plays guitar in a metal band. On the other hand, Juan spends much of his time searching for his father with a young couple from the city who attempt to produce independent documentaries. It is these unlikely groupings of people that allow hopefulness to be maintained. The members of Marimbas Del Infierno did not have a lot outside of the band, and were able to lean on each other in times of failure. Juan, after building a relationship with the young couple, was able to reach out to Ignacio for help to build his new home, the thing that was giving him hope for the future. This period fostered an environment of entrepreneurship and comradery that helped Guatemalans combat and cope with the many negative side effects of