Aquí y Allá (Here and There) 2012

Pedro makes his way back to the charming village of Copanatoyac, located in the scenic Sierra mountains of Guerrero, Mexico, which holds deep significance as the “(Aquí) or Here” of the title. After spending several years in New York working tirelessly to support his family, he finds himself confronting the reality of fatherhood as his daughters transition into adolescence. The younger daughter, Heidi, is eager to rekindle their bond, while the older one, Lorena, proves to be more emotionally distant than Pedro had anticipated. His wife, Teresa, continues to radiate her familiar warmth with her lovely smile, yet she harbors suspicions about his time away, sensing he may have had a romantic involvement during his stay in the US. This creates a tension that lingers in their intimate moments.

Pedro has diligently saved his earnings from extended periods of labor in the US and dreams of improving their lives together without the necessity of leaving them behind again. In pursuit of his own version of the American Dream, he plans to launch a local band named the Copa Kings. Through music, Pedro hopes to bridge the gap between himself and Lorena, whose teenage resentment seems to soften in the presence of melodies.

As the villagers anticipate a fruitful harvest this year, they are also aware of the ever-present uncertainties that surround their lives. Work is available in the nearby city of Tlapa, about an hour away; however, many locals often think of relatives or opportunities that lie beyond the border. While tending to the cornfields, Pedro encounters Leo, a spirited teenager filled with dreams of emigrating to the United States. Pedro takes Leo under his wing, mentoring him as he navigates his budding affections for Karla, a smart girl who shares his love for dancing, although in a different style. Their youthful romance serves as a nostalgic reminder of Pedro and Teresa’s love story from years past.

Pedro is continually reminded of the haunting presence of the US—referred to as “(Allá) or There”—in the lives of his friends and family. He finds himself consoling a grieving mother, mourning the loss of her son, who died unexpectedly “over there.” A touching moment arises when he meets a new nephew, being raised by relatives after his parents emigrated, reinforcing that yearning for connection across borders.

When Teresa discovers she is expecting their third child, complications arise, forcing Pedro to navigate financial challenges related to medical care. Amidst these trials, moments of joy emerge as he performs in local concerts with the Copa Kings. As he sings the poignant lyrics of his song, “Quiero Brindar”—> “I wanna drink to all I’ve got and to all I’ve accomplished”—Pedro grapples with the harsh reality of sustaining a living as a band leader and musician. Work for the locals remains tied to the success of their crops, while construction jobs are influenced by unpredictable economic factors. Ultimately, Pedro faces the heartbreaking truth that to provide for their families, many must make the difficult choice to leave their loved ones behind.