05 · 12 · 10

Abel in Cannes

Clara Sánchez desde Cannes

At a small news conference for the Mexican press at “Villa Aguascalientes,”(baptized as such by his production), Luna said Abel is a story about a sick boy who decides to occupy the place of his absent father. The director pointed out that he hopes this film will help future parents reflect on what is at stake having children since Mexico is a country marked by the absence of fathers. “ If someone is thinking about becoming a father, he should be able and willing to be alongside his children,” he said

The actor, who has presented Ambulante, documentary film festival, in Morelia since 2005, said that the film is a type of homage to mothers. “I lost my mother when I was two years old, but I’ve always fantasized being with her. After experiencing the birth of my own son, I understand how strong ties between women and their children are developed, ties that can withstand anything.”

This is the second feature film directed by Luna, who made his debut with the documentary JC Chávez, about the life of boxer Julio César Chávez. He explained that Abel could not compete for the Golden Camera award because it was not his first film.
 
Two of the characters in Abel, Christopher Ruíz-Esparza and Gerardo Ruiz Esparza, are not actors. They were chosen among a casting of 500 children. The film was first shown at the Sundance Festival where critics gave it positive reviews.