Under the Same Moon

Under the Same Moon is a heart-wrenching drama that weaves together the parallel lives of Rosario and her nine-year-old son, Carlitos, as they navigate the complexities of a migrant's life on both sides of the US-Mexico border. The film, directed by Patricia Riggen, masterfully crafts a poignant tale of love, separation, and hope. Rosario, a determined mother, dreams of a better life for her son, and in her quest for economic stability, she leaves Carlitos in the care of her own mother, Amparo, in Mexico. The year is 2001, and tensions are high as the world grapples with the aftermath of 9/11. Rosario joins the ranks of the many undocumented workers who risk everything to cross into the United States in hopes of securing employment and a more secure future. Meanwhile, in Mexico, Amparo takes on the responsibility of caring for Carlitos, who has grown to love his grandmother dearly. Amparo's own life has been marked by hardship and loss, but her love for Rosario and her grandson keeps her going. As Amparo struggles to provide for Carlitos and keep him safe, she becomes acutely aware of the consequences of Rosario's decision to leave. She harbors the hope that Rosario will soon return and that they will be reunited once more. The film delves into the difficult realities faced by migrants like Rosario, who are forced to make impossible choices between their love for family and the need to provide for them. Rosario is shown toiling long hours in the US, often in dehumanizing conditions, for meager wages that barely cover her living expenses. Her only solace is the occasional phone call to Amparo and Carlitos, during which the family shares precious moments of connection despite the physical distance between them. As Carlitos grows and matures in Amparo's care, he begins to understand the sacrifices Rosario has made for him and becomes increasingly aware of the circumstances surrounding his mother's absence. He clings to the stories of his mother's life in the US, using them as a source of comfort and strength. Despite the difficulties he faces, Carlitos remains steadfast in his love for his mother and the hope that one day they will be reunited. Throughout the film, Riggen employs a non-linear narrative, oscillating between the lives of Rosario and Carlitos to convey the emotional turmoil experienced by these two characters. The cinematography is equally striking, juxtaposing the vibrant colors of Mexico with the drab, desolate landscape of the US border region. The production design effectively captures the atmosphere of a community where people are living in the shadows, their lives dictated by the precarious nature of their immigration status. The acting in Under the Same Moon is exceptional, particularly in the hands of Adrian Alonso, who plays Carlitos, and Maya Zapata, who portrays Rosario. Their portrayals convey the depth of their characters' emotional experiences, imbuing the narrative with authenticity and emotional resonance. Catalina Sandino Moreno, who plays Amparo, brings a quiet dignity to her role, underscoring the unsung heroism of women like her who provide support and care to their families amidst incredible hardship. Under the Same Moon ultimately transcends its tragic premise by highlighting the indomitable power of love and family bonds in the face of adversity. As the story hurtles towards its poignant conclusion, Riggen underscores the resilience of her characters, who remain steadfast in their commitment to one another despite the challenges that surround them. In doing so, the film provides a nuanced portrayal of the complex issues surrounding immigration, one that acknowledges both the sacrifices made and the hope that sustains families torn apart by circumstance. The outcome of this narrative will leave audiences moved, inspired, and perhaps more informed about the lived experiences of those who navigate the treacherous landscape of migration.