“Sujo”

Stories about cartel violence usually sing the same thematic notes, but co-directors Fernanda Valadez and Astrid Rondero’s “Sujo” feels different. This quiet, emotionally rich thriller examines how living near a life of crime can impact a child, and this coming-of-age story has huge stakes from the get-go.

Sujo (Juan Jesús Varela), a character portrayed by different actors as he ages, is only 4 years old when his cartel father is murdered, leaving him behind with his loving mother who does everything in her power to keep him safe from harm. Despite being hidden away in the Mexican countryside for most of his young life, Sujo never really escapes the violence that surrounds him. As time passes, it seems more likely that the young man may never be able to avoid the destiny that was set in motion by his father all those years ago.

The film begs the question, “is it truly ever possible to escape a life you’re born into?” Valadez and Rondero tell their story in chapters over the years, focusing on strong (and exceptionally written) female characters who are integral to the boy’s life trajectory. It seems when Sujo needs a little help in life, he gets it from stable, caring women.

The story turns more foreboding as Sujo gets older and there are concerning incidents and interactions that serve as clues that the trajectory of his life likely won’t conclude well. To that end, “Sujo” embraces a sad reality, and the emotional relationship formed with the title character makes it all the more gut-wrenching to see the story’s eventual outcome.

By: Louisa Moore