Film Lens
Paulina chronicles the life of Paulina Cruz Suárez, who was traded by her parents for land rights in a rural Mexican village during the 1950s. The documentary uses interviews and dramatic reenactments to depict her traumatic experiences, including being ostracized by villagers and raped by the town boss, who kept her as his mistress throughout her adolescence.
At the age of 15, Paulina escaped to Mexico City to start anew. Now middle-aged, she returns to confront her family and the community about her past. The film interweaves documentary and fiction styles to present varying perspectives on her story and the impact of her experiences on her life and those around her.
Why Watch
- •Meet Paulina Cruz Suárez, a woman who reclaimed her life.
- •See the impact of rural Mexican traditions on personal lives.
- •Follow Paulina's return to confront her past.
Did You Know
•Paulina was traded by her parents for land rights in the 1950s.
•She was raped by the town boss and kept as his mistress during her adolescence.
•Paulina escaped to Mexico City at the age of 15 to begin a new life.
•The documentary features both interviews and dramatic reenactments.
Perfect For
Mexican historyWomen’s rightsRural communities