Jayro Bustamante on Indigenous Issues and His First Comedy
Guatemalan filmmaker Jayro Bustamante made a significant appearance at the Panama International Film Festival (IFF Panama) to showcase his latest film “Rita” and conduct a masterclass. In an interview with Variety, Bustamante shared insights into his upcoming projects, including “Mountains of Fire” (“Cordillera de Fuego”) and his first comedy film, an adaptation of the 1998 Spanish romcom “Nada en la nevera” (“Nothing in the Fridge”).
Known for addressing complex issues such as Indigenous rights, systemic oppression, and LGBTQ+ rights in his films, Bustamante’s “Mountains of Fire” originated as a social awareness project. The film, co-written by Bustamante, Luis Pineda, and Margarita Kénefic, follows two volcanologists, portrayed by Maria Mercedes Coroy and Tatiana Palomo, as they warn and evacuate indigenous communities threatened by a new volcano. Through their journey, they uncover corruption within the country’s government and the neglect of ethnic communities.
Reflecting on a past volcanic eruption in Guatemala that resulted in the burial of three indigenous communities, Bustamante emphasized the social implications of such natural disasters. To prepare for the film, Bustamante established Academia Ixcanul, an acting school that trained indigenous communities in acting and stunt work, as well as crew skills.
“Mountains of Fire” is a 100% Guatemalan production, underscoring Bustamante’s commitment to showcasing the talent and stories of his homeland. With plans to forgo traditional theatrical release in favor of a streaming platform to reach a wider audience, Bustamante aims to spark reflection and dialogue among viewers.
In addition to “Mountains of Fire,” Bustamante is venturing into comedy with his next project, a Latin American adaptation of “Nada en la nevera.” The film explores themes of romantic love, self-love, and the complexities of forming genuine connections in a modern world. Bustamante sees comedy as a powerful tool to delve into profound topics and hopes to blend humor with introspection in this upcoming film.
As he continues to push boundaries and explore diverse genres, Bustamante remains dedicated to telling compelling stories that resonate with audiences on a deep level. Through his unique perspective and artistic vision, he aims to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and entertain viewers in equal measure.
