Cinema of Mexico

The history of Mexican cinema goes back to the begining of the XXth century, back then several enthusiasts of the new medium documented historical events, specially the Mexican Revolution and produced some movies that have been only recently been rediscovered.

During the 20s very few movies were produced, specially given the political climate that was still very unsettled.

In the 30s, once peace and a degree of political stability were achieved, cinematography took off in Mexico and several movies still experimenting with the nascent medium were done. It is important to notice how early Mexican cinematographers wers influenced and encouraged by Serguei M. Eisenstein visit to the country.

During the 40s the full potential of the industry developped, it is then when actors, actresses and directors become popular icons and even figures with political influence on diverse spheres of Mexican life. The industry received a bost as a consequence of Hollywood redirecting its efforts twards propagandistic films, which left an open film for other industreis. Mexico domianted the filem market in Latin America for most of the 40s without the US industry's competition.

It is during the 40s that the golden era of Mexican cinema takes place, actors like Pedro Infante, Jorge Negrete, Cantinflas, Joaquin Pardave,Maria Felix, Dolores del Rio gained recognition, Gabriel Figueroa became and internationally acclaimed cinematographer and Emilio Fernandez and Luis Bunuel directed some of the most important movies.

The themes during those years although mostly conventional comedies or dramas touched all aspects of Mexican society, from the legenday dictator Profirio Diaz and his court, to love histories always tainted by drama.