'El Norte' returns to Sundance 40 years after its debut
The Sundance Film Festival is showcasing the 1983 film "El Norte" again this year, marking over 40 years since its initial screening. The film, directed by Gregory Nava, tells the story of siblings fleeing violence in Central America for a better life in the U.S. Nava developed "El Norte" at the Sundance Institute, where he aimed to portray a Latino story authentically. The film is trilingual, featuring K’iche’, Spanish, and English, and incorporates Maya folklore to reflect the characters' cultural background. Despite its age, "El Norte" remains relevant, resonating with current discussions about migration. Nava notes that the issues depicted in the film persist today, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by refugees seeking a new life in the United States.