I'm Leaving Now 2019

Felipe finds himself at a significant juncture in his life after dedicating 16 years to Brooklyn, where he has juggled three low-paying jobs while collecting bottles off the streets during his downtime. With the majority of his earnings consistently sent back to his family in Mexico, he has made the difficult decision to return home to his wife and children—whom he has not seen for nearly twenty years. However, upon revealing his intentions to his family, he is met with unexpected news: they have wasted the money he sent, accumulated considerable debt, and express their desire for him to remain in the United States to continue earning money instead of returning home.

The film, I’m Leaving Now, crafted over two years in the vibrant and nuanced landscape of Brooklyn’s immigrant community, presents a powerful and personal narrative of an undocumented worker navigating life on the edges of society. It merges documentary realism with fictional elements, vividly showcasing the daily rhythms, emotional complexities, and diverse sounds of Felipe’s experiences amidst the urban environment. The documentary’s artistic approach—impressionistic and cinematic—provides a unique auditory backdrop, elevating Felipe’s solitude into a poignant meditation on the longing for family, the concept of home, the profound sense of loneliness, and the nuances of love.

As Felipe grapples with the heartbreaking decision to either stay in New York or go back to Mexico, the film builds to a moving portrayal of the challenges and dramas inherent in the lives of those who often remain unseen—those working tirelessly in kitchens, hotels, and construction sites across the bustling landscapes of major cities. While the film intentionally avoids direct political discourse, it nonetheless conveys a significant commentary on Felipe’s existence, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the life of a man caught in a delicate balance between relentless labor and the yearning for a distant home. The story serves not only as a personal account but also as a broader reflection on the struggles faced by many within similar circumstances, ultimately reminding the audience of the humanity that resides within these often overlooked lives.