My family was from the Mission District when it was primarily an Irish neighborhood. Its main claim to fame was it has the nicest weather in San Francisco. I grew up during the transition from Irish to Hispanic, and had a front row seat on the ethnic diversity that took root during the late 1940's/early 1950's. While much has changed since then much has remained the same. Still has great weather and a beautiful park in its midst, right next to Mission High School and Mission Delores. The film perfectly captures the Mission District of today with its hugely Hispanic influence. It is a refreshing change from the yuppie San Francisco we usually see in movies with an emphasis on the Marina, Union Square, and Pacific Heights. The Mission is still where the working class live as it was back when I was growing up. This is a movie about working class values, family values, and machismo, with a San Francisco backdrop. The cinematography is first class with good use of closeups of people, cars, and interesting houses. The movie of course is mainly about the class of Hispanic male culture versus the gay experience in San Francisco, and it pulls that off by presenting a sympathetic view of each culture. That is not easy to do. I enjoyed this movie not so much because it was so well made but because there are so few movies that even attempt to capture a human sized story with a story about a working class neighborhood in a world famous city. This movie was different in a very good way. It was also nice to see a movie about Hispanics not centered either in L.A. or New York. The cast was uniformly excellent. There wasn't a false note in this movie. Kudo's to the Bratt brothers for having the tenacity to make this movie.
18 Reviews
Cruise "slow and low" through LA MISSION
reelinspiration8 July 2010
"La Mission" is a project of love about the barrio neighborhood the Bratt brothers grew up in. Writer/Director Peter Bratt takes time and care to set up a strong sense of cultural pride with Aztec dancers, Catholic rituals, "slow and low" cruising in shiny low riders through the family oriented Mission District of San Francisco.
Che Rivera (Benjamin Bratt) an ex-con and recovering alcoholic, has worked hard to earn the respect of his community by going straight and being a good father to his college bound son (Jeremy Ray Valdez.) Benjamin Bratt portrays Che as the embodiment of Mexican machismo. The director presents him as a sympathetic character who was brought up to use his fists to survive on the hard streets. Che finds strength for his quest for redemption in his culture and religion. But when he discovers that his beloved son is gay, that homophobic culture drives his negative response.
Enhancing the theme is a multi-racial relationship with Che's black, culturally diverse, social-worker neighbor Lena (Erika Alexander.) Lena sees through Che's violent, macho exterior. Experience has taught her that this kind of man is incapable of changing, but she can't help but be moved by the wounded boy inside.
There is an odd visual metaphor which I believe is meant to show the contrast between past and present Chicano culture: colorful Aztec dancers perform at the shine of a murdered teen with a sign, "No more violence." I found it odd because the Aztec's practiced human sacrifice. Whether intentional or not, the Aztec dancers are a good metaphor for the theme: We need to keep what is healthy from our culture or religion and let go of what is destructive.
"La Mission" isn't perfect. A few scenes were just left hanging - especially in the romantic subplot. I didn't feel the chemistry between Che and Lena. But Benjamin Bratt delivers one of his strongest performances. The brothers have given us an authentic, loving depiction of the culture in the Mission barrio with an important theme for our times.
Movie Blessings! Jana Segal,Reel Inspiration
Che Rivera (Benjamin Bratt) an ex-con and recovering alcoholic, has worked hard to earn the respect of his community by going straight and being a good father to his college bound son (Jeremy Ray Valdez.) Benjamin Bratt portrays Che as the embodiment of Mexican machismo. The director presents him as a sympathetic character who was brought up to use his fists to survive on the hard streets. Che finds strength for his quest for redemption in his culture and religion. But when he discovers that his beloved son is gay, that homophobic culture drives his negative response.
Enhancing the theme is a multi-racial relationship with Che's black, culturally diverse, social-worker neighbor Lena (Erika Alexander.) Lena sees through Che's violent, macho exterior. Experience has taught her that this kind of man is incapable of changing, but she can't help but be moved by the wounded boy inside.
There is an odd visual metaphor which I believe is meant to show the contrast between past and present Chicano culture: colorful Aztec dancers perform at the shine of a murdered teen with a sign, "No more violence." I found it odd because the Aztec's practiced human sacrifice. Whether intentional or not, the Aztec dancers are a good metaphor for the theme: We need to keep what is healthy from our culture or religion and let go of what is destructive.
"La Mission" isn't perfect. A few scenes were just left hanging - especially in the romantic subplot. I didn't feel the chemistry between Che and Lena. But Benjamin Bratt delivers one of his strongest performances. The brothers have given us an authentic, loving depiction of the culture in the Mission barrio with an important theme for our times.
Movie Blessings! Jana Segal,Reel Inspiration
LA MISSION = mission accomplished (for real)
rroberto1822 April 2010
Even in L.A., this powerful film about Latino family culture only ran in a handful of theaters for a fewer number of weeks. Well worth looking for, LA MISSION is one of the most powerful and rewarding films I've seen in years.
Every actor, from unknown to under-rated, is perfectly cast and directed. Leading man Benjamin Bratt is given solid dialog, but in a major scene in which he has no words, his body and soul communicate all that needs to be said and more. The carefully chosen locations and intricately-detailed set design are reasons enough to shut your cell phone off and let it command your undivided attention.
Even the soundtrack which could have gone down a well-traveled "low rider" route takes you to unexpected places -- from indigenous Aztec folk music to India raga; from the 60s to the present. Both the original and adapted musical choices are just as involving as the script and plot. Yet it's not available on a soundtrack CD as of this writing.
Don't want to say more, because the film is best seen "cold" with little inside knowledge. But you will leave the theater (or your home screen) wondering why this well-crafted labor of love is such a well- kept secret.
Woefully overlooked despite solid reviews, it's 2 hours well spent -- and warrants repeated viewing for years to come.
Every actor, from unknown to under-rated, is perfectly cast and directed. Leading man Benjamin Bratt is given solid dialog, but in a major scene in which he has no words, his body and soul communicate all that needs to be said and more. The carefully chosen locations and intricately-detailed set design are reasons enough to shut your cell phone off and let it command your undivided attention.
Even the soundtrack which could have gone down a well-traveled "low rider" route takes you to unexpected places -- from indigenous Aztec folk music to India raga; from the 60s to the present. Both the original and adapted musical choices are just as involving as the script and plot. Yet it's not available on a soundtrack CD as of this writing.
Don't want to say more, because the film is best seen "cold" with little inside knowledge. But you will leave the theater (or your home screen) wondering why this well-crafted labor of love is such a well- kept secret.
Woefully overlooked despite solid reviews, it's 2 hours well spent -- and warrants repeated viewing for years to come.
Family, Tradition, and Emotional Rage
aharmas10 April 2010
Diamonds are rare and the result of years of pressure on what many of us see as insignificant bits of carbon. Small films shine the brightest because there is enormous pressure on them to succeed and are so rare to find, but one of them bursts through like this film, we'd better be ready to witness pure brilliance and some amazing work.
Much of the success of this piece is having Benjamin Pratt as the propelling force. His perfect portrayal of a complex, tortured conservative (within his cultural boundaries) push him to emotional conflicts he might never be able to handle. The audience knows we are in for tour-de-force performance when the film shows in a very early scene an emotional confrontation between father and son, after Che discovers some hidden baggage on his son's life. The scene is violent, emotional, dark, powerful, and hard to watch, as we see two human beings who obviously love each other react in very explosive terms. Jess is his father's younger version, a strong human young man who is discovering himself is not willing to compromise his belief, much like his father clings to his traditional values. The big exception is that there plenty of darkness and suffering in Che's life. In spite of having been given a second chance, as we eventually learn through scenes that provide some family and friends' back stories. Che has seen plenty of tragedy before, but he hasn't been able to find cathartic release and holds much pain inside. Dealing with his only child's new revelations might just be enough to push him into irreparable damage.
There are some wonderful scenes in "The Mission." We're exposed to facets of a culture that very few people ever see. There are stereotypes, but also much is done to create real character out of many of the supporting characters. Che's brother parallel storyline is subtly presented to show the way this family interacts with each other and the strength of their family bonds. Che's African American neighbor is delightful and refreshing showing a strong and sensitive human being who might be the link between doom and salvation for Che.
The biggest revelation in the film is Jeremy Ray Valdez's performance as the estranged son who might not be able to reconnect with his father. Seldom one can see such a range of emotions so perfectly displayed scene after scene, matching Pratt's nearly perfect performance bit by bit. One looks forward to seeing more of this amazing actor in the future.
"The Mission" is a rich, powerful, and finely detailed movie that shows the inner workings of a segment of society rarely seen through this lens. The film is a small, intimate jewel that is both touching and enjoyable. Excellent!
Much of the success of this piece is having Benjamin Pratt as the propelling force. His perfect portrayal of a complex, tortured conservative (within his cultural boundaries) push him to emotional conflicts he might never be able to handle. The audience knows we are in for tour-de-force performance when the film shows in a very early scene an emotional confrontation between father and son, after Che discovers some hidden baggage on his son's life. The scene is violent, emotional, dark, powerful, and hard to watch, as we see two human beings who obviously love each other react in very explosive terms. Jess is his father's younger version, a strong human young man who is discovering himself is not willing to compromise his belief, much like his father clings to his traditional values. The big exception is that there plenty of darkness and suffering in Che's life. In spite of having been given a second chance, as we eventually learn through scenes that provide some family and friends' back stories. Che has seen plenty of tragedy before, but he hasn't been able to find cathartic release and holds much pain inside. Dealing with his only child's new revelations might just be enough to push him into irreparable damage.
There are some wonderful scenes in "The Mission." We're exposed to facets of a culture that very few people ever see. There are stereotypes, but also much is done to create real character out of many of the supporting characters. Che's brother parallel storyline is subtly presented to show the way this family interacts with each other and the strength of their family bonds. Che's African American neighbor is delightful and refreshing showing a strong and sensitive human being who might be the link between doom and salvation for Che.
The biggest revelation in the film is Jeremy Ray Valdez's performance as the estranged son who might not be able to reconnect with his father. Seldom one can see such a range of emotions so perfectly displayed scene after scene, matching Pratt's nearly perfect performance bit by bit. One looks forward to seeing more of this amazing actor in the future.
"The Mission" is a rich, powerful, and finely detailed movie that shows the inner workings of a segment of society rarely seen through this lens. The film is a small, intimate jewel that is both touching and enjoyable. Excellent!
This well told story is more than entertaining. It enlightens.
lohrelem6 October 2010
It was fun to see a movie set in San Francisco with places I've been to in the background. Most of the time I forgot I was watching actors in a movie. When that happens I know I'm watching a good show with solid acting and direction. I felt anxiety, fear, and foreboding during much of the movie and that was authentic too. I've been in the Mission lots of times but I'm not Hispanic, didn't grow up there, and usually feel some degree of anxiety and sense of danger when I am there.
The thunder during Che's cathartic moment seemed a bit phony since that only happens once in a great while in San Francisco and all of the Bay Area.
I was wondering how Che was going to fuel his Biodiesel '64 Chevy during the trip to LA. Maybe it could run on regular diesel fuel?
I saw it on DVD and was disappointed that the only special feature was the music soundtrack. I would love to see interviews and some behind the scenes footage.
The thunder during Che's cathartic moment seemed a bit phony since that only happens once in a great while in San Francisco and all of the Bay Area.
I was wondering how Che was going to fuel his Biodiesel '64 Chevy during the trip to LA. Maybe it could run on regular diesel fuel?
I saw it on DVD and was disappointed that the only special feature was the music soundtrack. I would love to see interviews and some behind the scenes footage.
Worth seeing but sometimes hard to watch
vchimpanzee21 September 2014
Che has lived in the same apartment in San Francisco's Mission District for 26 years. He has done time but has a garage and restores classic cars, and he drives a bus. He has a teenage son Jes, but we never learn about Jes' mother.
Che is a great guy with a pleasant personality most of the time, and everyone likes him--except Lena, who doesn't want him to work on cars on the sidewalk (did he not have the garage yet?) and just generally seems hard to please. During what free time he has, Che plays pickup basketball with the guys, and he drives one of the many great-looking classic cars in his "low rider" group. He is also restoring a '64 Chevy for Jes as a graduation present.
Jes has a boyfriend Jordan and they go to a loud gay club together. They have a number of photos taken, which Jes leaves lying around. He shouldn't have, because he hasn't told his father. And as cool as Che is, his reaction to his son being gay is not exactly what you would expect. Jes is also bullied by a guy at school who also sees him in the 'hood, and this guy has problems with Che as well.
During the rest of the movie, Che and Jes have to work to resolve their differences. Something does happen that we hope would make everything work out, but it's just not that simple. Meanwhile, Che and Lena started out hating each other, so what do you think will happen with them? Well, not quite what you'd think. Nothing is simple in this movie.
This movie is a quality portrayal of life in a Latino neighborhood, but it is more than that. These people are not merely Mexican. At least some of them, including the bully, are Aztec, and we see the colorful costumes and the dancing of the Aztec culture. We see beautiful art on buildings, and even on that '64 Chevy. Who knew a 60-year-old car could look so good?
Benjamin Bratt gives a remarkable performance with many dimensions. He is not merely this great guy everyone likes. He can be just plain nasty and he can get depressed and withdraw from the world. But overall his is a positive image of Latino culture, because he is genuinely trying to be a good guy.
Another good performance comes from a guy whose name I don't remember. He is a good friend of Che, and he and his wife had a disabled child. This is important in helping Che overcome his prejudices, if indeed he ever does.
And Erika Alexander is worth mentioning as Lena. Jeremy Ray Valdez also does a good job as Jes.
While the movie can be quite serious and controversial, with different types of bigotry, it also has some laughs. One of Che's friends (who is African-American) is able to say "chili chatter" without offending when complaining the others speak Spanish around him when they're in HIS country; they should speak English.
There is some violence and I could tell the language had to be cleaned up a LOT for TV. Amazingly, someone decided the rating should be TV-PG-V. No L, though there are a few words left.
One of the most meaningful parts of the movie is a scene with the low-riders. A new person in the group appears to be warmly welcomed by the neighborhood people. They don't say a word. They just look at the newcomer in a friendly way. Judging from the credits, I would say these are real people from the neighborhood.
It's worth seeing, just in general but also as a Latino-themed movie that is different.
Che is a great guy with a pleasant personality most of the time, and everyone likes him--except Lena, who doesn't want him to work on cars on the sidewalk (did he not have the garage yet?) and just generally seems hard to please. During what free time he has, Che plays pickup basketball with the guys, and he drives one of the many great-looking classic cars in his "low rider" group. He is also restoring a '64 Chevy for Jes as a graduation present.
Jes has a boyfriend Jordan and they go to a loud gay club together. They have a number of photos taken, which Jes leaves lying around. He shouldn't have, because he hasn't told his father. And as cool as Che is, his reaction to his son being gay is not exactly what you would expect. Jes is also bullied by a guy at school who also sees him in the 'hood, and this guy has problems with Che as well.
During the rest of the movie, Che and Jes have to work to resolve their differences. Something does happen that we hope would make everything work out, but it's just not that simple. Meanwhile, Che and Lena started out hating each other, so what do you think will happen with them? Well, not quite what you'd think. Nothing is simple in this movie.
This movie is a quality portrayal of life in a Latino neighborhood, but it is more than that. These people are not merely Mexican. At least some of them, including the bully, are Aztec, and we see the colorful costumes and the dancing of the Aztec culture. We see beautiful art on buildings, and even on that '64 Chevy. Who knew a 60-year-old car could look so good?
Benjamin Bratt gives a remarkable performance with many dimensions. He is not merely this great guy everyone likes. He can be just plain nasty and he can get depressed and withdraw from the world. But overall his is a positive image of Latino culture, because he is genuinely trying to be a good guy.
Another good performance comes from a guy whose name I don't remember. He is a good friend of Che, and he and his wife had a disabled child. This is important in helping Che overcome his prejudices, if indeed he ever does.
And Erika Alexander is worth mentioning as Lena. Jeremy Ray Valdez also does a good job as Jes.
While the movie can be quite serious and controversial, with different types of bigotry, it also has some laughs. One of Che's friends (who is African-American) is able to say "chili chatter" without offending when complaining the others speak Spanish around him when they're in HIS country; they should speak English.
There is some violence and I could tell the language had to be cleaned up a LOT for TV. Amazingly, someone decided the rating should be TV-PG-V. No L, though there are a few words left.
One of the most meaningful parts of the movie is a scene with the low-riders. A new person in the group appears to be warmly welcomed by the neighborhood people. They don't say a word. They just look at the newcomer in a friendly way. Judging from the credits, I would say these are real people from the neighborhood.
It's worth seeing, just in general but also as a Latino-themed movie that is different.
Mission: Almost Impossible
thesar-29 October 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I get it: I don't live in or around San Francisco and I know it's only stereotyped as the "Gayest Town on the Planet," but it was hard for me to find homophobia this deep in the glorified afterschool special, La Mission.
I'm sure it exists as I'm sure there are Gambler Anonymous meetings near Las Vegas Blvd, and perhaps it would've been even more cliché to set this movie about a father coming to terms with his son's homosexuality in Laramie, WY. For me, that was as tough a pill to swallow as tough-guy Che (Bratt) displayed.
Okay, so we have Che & son, Jesse, (Valdez) who live in the Mission district of San Francisco. They like slow moving cars and enjoy sobriety. Well, Jesse's tastes are changing, literally. From the disinterest in cars, to the newly discovered beer and most importantly: men. Ex-con and macho-man-of-the-year daddy won't have any of that.
Might I mention that part of his phobia stems from his devote Catholic and Hispanic heritage? Probably more from the religious side, because some of the other Hispanic neighbors don't seem to care as much.
Throw in the ever smart and tree-hugging Lena (Erika Alexander) as the neighbor of reason and affection from Che, some hate crimes and a back-drop of Alcoholics Anonymous brings you to a practically harmless afterschool special. Heck, they even had the obligatory hospital scene.
It's much too long to hold too many people's interest and Che's anger barely calms throughout, in fact it grows more and more until the finale. I almost expected a "To Be Continued" to show up because it was taking far too long to get to the inevitable "acceptance" message.
And that, his anger, though integral to the story line, was a bit harsh to consume. Barely a consequence was shown, hardly a realization to be had. I'm sure this type of extreme rebellion exists, but I think the kid, Jesse, who could've been anyone's kid as he showed zero resemblance inside or out to Che, should've left the scene long before due to the mad man he calls Dad.
Despite the soundtrack I hated terribly, the movie's beautifully shot and the acting's surprisingly above par. That said, I'd recommend other coming-of-terms films as this brings little to the table in originality or surprises.
I'm sure it exists as I'm sure there are Gambler Anonymous meetings near Las Vegas Blvd, and perhaps it would've been even more cliché to set this movie about a father coming to terms with his son's homosexuality in Laramie, WY. For me, that was as tough a pill to swallow as tough-guy Che (Bratt) displayed.
Okay, so we have Che & son, Jesse, (Valdez) who live in the Mission district of San Francisco. They like slow moving cars and enjoy sobriety. Well, Jesse's tastes are changing, literally. From the disinterest in cars, to the newly discovered beer and most importantly: men. Ex-con and macho-man-of-the-year daddy won't have any of that.
Might I mention that part of his phobia stems from his devote Catholic and Hispanic heritage? Probably more from the religious side, because some of the other Hispanic neighbors don't seem to care as much.
Throw in the ever smart and tree-hugging Lena (Erika Alexander) as the neighbor of reason and affection from Che, some hate crimes and a back-drop of Alcoholics Anonymous brings you to a practically harmless afterschool special. Heck, they even had the obligatory hospital scene.
It's much too long to hold too many people's interest and Che's anger barely calms throughout, in fact it grows more and more until the finale. I almost expected a "To Be Continued" to show up because it was taking far too long to get to the inevitable "acceptance" message.
And that, his anger, though integral to the story line, was a bit harsh to consume. Barely a consequence was shown, hardly a realization to be had. I'm sure this type of extreme rebellion exists, but I think the kid, Jesse, who could've been anyone's kid as he showed zero resemblance inside or out to Che, should've left the scene long before due to the mad man he calls Dad.
Despite the soundtrack I hated terribly, the movie's beautifully shot and the acting's surprisingly above par. That said, I'd recommend other coming-of-terms films as this brings little to the table in originality or surprises.
Raw, Real, Unwilling to Sell Out: A Fine Film
gradyharp11 August 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Writer/director Peter Bratt had the choice in LA MISSION to make a film about the Hispanic culture in San Francisco's Mission district to create a predictable imitation of life or a sensitive study of a culture with all of its beauty and with all of its problems: gratefully he took the latter. This is a film bursting with fantastic color from the inimitable clash of pigments used for the interiors of the homes of this culture to the fantasyland carefully restored old cars painted with religious and emotional scenes - the proud mark of the Low Riders - and the street celebrations full of lust and glamour and the intoxicating foods and dance. But it is also an internal film dealing with such realities as alcoholism, prison time, single parenting problems, pride in a child's educational and athletic achievements - and the delicate issue of responding to the presence of same sex relationships. It is a banquet of delights and problems that Bratt handles magnificently well.
Che Rivera (Benjamin Bratt in a role that defines his fine acting abilities) has served time in prison, is an Alcoholics Anonymous member, and since his wife's death early in their marriage is the loving father of his well-educated and well-loved son Jesse (Jeremy Ray Valdez, in a role that should mark him for an important career). Che works hard as a bus driver, spends his free time restoring old cars to ride every Friday evening - 'slow, low riding through the streets of San Francisco's Mission neighborhood'. His family includes Rene (Jesse Borrego) and Ana (Talisa Soto) who share as much pride in Jess as Che: their only son was born with a cardiac defect that has made them more sensitive to the differences in children. Che has only one problem: Jesse is gay and has a boyfriend Jordan (Max Rosenak) and the discovery of Jesse secret life destroys Che image of his family and of himself. A neighbor Lena (Erika Alexander) befriends Jesse and eventually Che and Lena are draw together over a tragedy that occurs: Jesse is shot by a homophobic fellow student, forcing Che to face his own demons and begin to understand his son more fully. The excellent way in which Bratt handles these major crossroad confrontations is written and directed and acted with such sensitivity - nothing occurs as expected and everyone maintains dignity - a very difficult range of emotions to handle.
The entire cast is excellent, the dialogue is spicy, the characters are well conceived, the particular gifts of Erika Alexander as a woman with a history of abuse who is devoting her life to working in a women's shelter who allows her physical needs to be met while maintaining her ownership of a wise woman of experience are extremely well utilized, and this film offers a platform deserving of the talent of Benjamin Bratt and Jeremy Ray Valdez. It is a tough story told with great sensitivity and truth. Hiro Narita's cinematography and Mark Kilian's musical score round out this very fine achievement in cinematic art.
Grady Harp
Che Rivera (Benjamin Bratt in a role that defines his fine acting abilities) has served time in prison, is an Alcoholics Anonymous member, and since his wife's death early in their marriage is the loving father of his well-educated and well-loved son Jesse (Jeremy Ray Valdez, in a role that should mark him for an important career). Che works hard as a bus driver, spends his free time restoring old cars to ride every Friday evening - 'slow, low riding through the streets of San Francisco's Mission neighborhood'. His family includes Rene (Jesse Borrego) and Ana (Talisa Soto) who share as much pride in Jess as Che: their only son was born with a cardiac defect that has made them more sensitive to the differences in children. Che has only one problem: Jesse is gay and has a boyfriend Jordan (Max Rosenak) and the discovery of Jesse secret life destroys Che image of his family and of himself. A neighbor Lena (Erika Alexander) befriends Jesse and eventually Che and Lena are draw together over a tragedy that occurs: Jesse is shot by a homophobic fellow student, forcing Che to face his own demons and begin to understand his son more fully. The excellent way in which Bratt handles these major crossroad confrontations is written and directed and acted with such sensitivity - nothing occurs as expected and everyone maintains dignity - a very difficult range of emotions to handle.
The entire cast is excellent, the dialogue is spicy, the characters are well conceived, the particular gifts of Erika Alexander as a woman with a history of abuse who is devoting her life to working in a women's shelter who allows her physical needs to be met while maintaining her ownership of a wise woman of experience are extremely well utilized, and this film offers a platform deserving of the talent of Benjamin Bratt and Jeremy Ray Valdez. It is a tough story told with great sensitivity and truth. Hiro Narita's cinematography and Mark Kilian's musical score round out this very fine achievement in cinematic art.
Grady Harp
Insightful, clever, funny, original, great story, characters and sound track
nancy-fulton2 December 2009
This is a film to see. Great as a "date" movie or even a family movie (if you don't mind the occasional f-bomb) this film has the same "human heart" found in Juno, Little Miss Sunshine, and Big Fat Greek Wedding. Its a great story told very well by very talented people who had something important to say.
I won't put in a spoiler because frankly I want you to see it as I did without knowing what its about. I want you to enjoy it's unfolding.
Whether you see this film in theaters (recommended) or watch it on PPV, Cable or DVD, I can _guarantee_ you'll see it because its one of the best independent films . . . one of the best films . . . I've seen in the last five years.
Enjoy :)
I won't put in a spoiler because frankly I want you to see it as I did without knowing what its about. I want you to enjoy it's unfolding.
Whether you see this film in theaters (recommended) or watch it on PPV, Cable or DVD, I can _guarantee_ you'll see it because its one of the best independent films . . . one of the best films . . . I've seen in the last five years.
Enjoy :)
Uncompromising and Realistic Portrait of Latino Life in San Francisco
martys-715 August 2010
This underrated movie provides an insider's view of the colorful San Francisco's neighborhood known as the "Mission" - a predominantly Latino enclave in San Francisco. Inspired by real characters, it does not present the usual clichés of the ethnic minority drama by avoiding the romanticizing of this environment; it skews the typical down home ethnic wisdom favored by liberal Hollywood and does not become another histrionic sordid ghetto thriller/soap opera.
Supported by an excellent cast, Benjamin Bratt gives an astonishing performance as an intolerant bus driver, a single father who cannot accept his adolescent only son's homosexuality despite the love and pride he feels for him. The violent machismo that have shaped his life is perpetuated by the next generation of disenfranchised youth who prey La Mission.
The neighborhood is presented as an insular world almost anachronistic in 21st century San Francisco. Working class middle age men turn old cars into souped-up low-riding monsters and make fun of soy lattes and recycling, feathered Aztec dancers fill the streets with color and sound as neighbors try to maintain a sense of heritage with their indigenous past, families place flowers and pray where their children have been slain.
The movie transcends its family drama genre allowing the story to evolve at its own pace with a feeling of authenticity and honesty prevailing in every scene. Without providing easy solutions, it centers on a character whose contradictions reflect the world he inhabits. Highly recommended.
Supported by an excellent cast, Benjamin Bratt gives an astonishing performance as an intolerant bus driver, a single father who cannot accept his adolescent only son's homosexuality despite the love and pride he feels for him. The violent machismo that have shaped his life is perpetuated by the next generation of disenfranchised youth who prey La Mission.
The neighborhood is presented as an insular world almost anachronistic in 21st century San Francisco. Working class middle age men turn old cars into souped-up low-riding monsters and make fun of soy lattes and recycling, feathered Aztec dancers fill the streets with color and sound as neighbors try to maintain a sense of heritage with their indigenous past, families place flowers and pray where their children have been slain.
The movie transcends its family drama genre allowing the story to evolve at its own pace with a feeling of authenticity and honesty prevailing in every scene. Without providing easy solutions, it centers on a character whose contradictions reflect the world he inhabits. Highly recommended.
La Mission - WELL DONE
kyle-kiel2 May 2010
Caught this flick with a choice of almost any seat. Weird because the theater is known for showing real life, low budget, "art" and eclectic films so I expected it to be well attended at the 2:10 showing. Someone judged that the religious elements in the movie were a distraction. I don't get the same read. They seemed to fit in culturally quite well. In fact I judge there was an intent to show a paradox between passion for worship / faith reverence and passionate violence. The central theme is the breakdown between single parent father and gay son. It left room for some play around other compelling life issues. If you are shy about the subject of gay men, go see Oceans. Two hours is too long for this movie (requisite love scene was useless), but the length did not detract from the story. The ending ... go see the movie.
La Mission
filmlover33319 March 2010
This is a fantastic film.
Benjamin Bratt gives his heart and soul in this performance as Che Riveria and Erika Alexander is stunning as Lena.
This film is rich with the colors, energy and music of the Mission district of San Francisco.
Writer/director Peter Bratt lets us into the world of a man defined by his culture. A culture that gives him a second chance at life and rewards masculinity and strength will also prove to be his downfall.
This father/son story is heartfelt. Che Riveria is a tough man but will need to dig deep to find the courage needed to prove he is worthy in the eyes of his son.
Benjamin Bratt gives his heart and soul in this performance as Che Riveria and Erika Alexander is stunning as Lena.
This film is rich with the colors, energy and music of the Mission district of San Francisco.
Writer/director Peter Bratt lets us into the world of a man defined by his culture. A culture that gives him a second chance at life and rewards masculinity and strength will also prove to be his downfall.
This father/son story is heartfelt. Che Riveria is a tough man but will need to dig deep to find the courage needed to prove he is worthy in the eyes of his son.
Brilliant Movie
karlanthony210325 April 2013
I think La Mission is brilliant was good to see Benjamin Bratt and Jesse Borrego in a movie together again since Blood In Blood Out. I still believe that Bratt is under appreciated in Hollywood his acting skills are brilliant, his role in La Mission actually makes you feel the fathers emotion having a gay son. Jeremy Ray Valdez was also good in his role as Jess a truly amazing performance all round. The movie is something that many directors have I feel not been able to portray correctly but Peter Bratt has done well to soak in the estranged relationship between father and son. Most viewers should enjoy this movie as it is relevant to everyday life.
real life
ohiootis22 March 2012
Excellent movie, tear jerker, loving and motivating. I would recommend LA Mission for young and old, white or black or brown !!! Benjamin Bratt's performaance moved me... We live and we learn! It ecouraged me to look beyond my personal views and opinions, and say to myself, I can be/do better in life than I have thus far.. This is truly a love story, love for humanity! love for life, and love for yourself. How is it that it has taken me 3-4 years to see this movie, maybe there wasn't enough t&a or blood, for it to get the credit it desererved. This is the kind of story that means something, that shows us we can make a change in our lives for the good, and at the same time enhance someone else's life.
Peter Bratt throws a lot in this movie
jjcremin-113 May 2010
Actually, Benjamin Bratt said, "My brother Peter throws a lot into this movie." I went to a sold out screening on May 11, 2010, at the Pasadena Playhouse. This was a special screening as not only was Benjamin there; there was co-star Jeremy Ray Valdez and Laureen Selman, President of Reel Green Media, and who has the unusual screen credit as Environmental Consultant.
Though Bratt is a familiar face with many credits, such as a regular on LAW & ORDER and co-star in one of Sandra Bollack's biggest hits, "MISS CONGENIALITY", he really wanted to make a film that portrays life where he grew up in, the Mission District in San Francisco. Locals pronounce La Mission as Spanish, La Mis-see-own. But he got nothing but "no's" from the top brass. They told him that there was no audience for this kind of story.
But he had faith in his brother's story so they became producers with help from AMC Independent. Knowing the effects of movie making does to the environment, Selman came on board to ensure that waste was cut down. Cast and crew had to refill their water bottles or use metal containers. Cars ran on vegetable oil and ways for minimal use of paper work was investigated.
I'll only give the setup of this movie as I do encourage seeing this movie. Che (Benjamin Bratt) is an ace mechanic who operates from his own garage. He often has his friends over while he works and he visits him regularly as well, playing dominoes and shooting the breeze. Most are Chicanos, like himself, though some English speaking African Americans are part of the group.
Though beer and hard liquor is around him, he does not drink at all. In fact, one of his amigos is his AA sponsor. He's done time in prison and divorced from his wife. He has his son Jessie (Jeremy Ray Valdez) living with him. Jeremy is in his last year of high school and studying to be a college student.
Just moved in on the second floor on top of his garage is a very spiritually minded African American, Lena (Ericka Alexander) who does not get along at Che at first.
However, things get all turned around when he finds photographic evidence that his son Jesse is gay. He beats his son and throws him out of his apartment.
Not a typical gang banger story at all and as in real life, everything does not resolve into one neat package. However, this is a good glimpse of of seeing realities in different perceptions and a story of transformation. Definitely not for kids but a very good one for those who like to keep an open mind.
Though Bratt is a familiar face with many credits, such as a regular on LAW & ORDER and co-star in one of Sandra Bollack's biggest hits, "MISS CONGENIALITY", he really wanted to make a film that portrays life where he grew up in, the Mission District in San Francisco. Locals pronounce La Mission as Spanish, La Mis-see-own. But he got nothing but "no's" from the top brass. They told him that there was no audience for this kind of story.
But he had faith in his brother's story so they became producers with help from AMC Independent. Knowing the effects of movie making does to the environment, Selman came on board to ensure that waste was cut down. Cast and crew had to refill their water bottles or use metal containers. Cars ran on vegetable oil and ways for minimal use of paper work was investigated.
I'll only give the setup of this movie as I do encourage seeing this movie. Che (Benjamin Bratt) is an ace mechanic who operates from his own garage. He often has his friends over while he works and he visits him regularly as well, playing dominoes and shooting the breeze. Most are Chicanos, like himself, though some English speaking African Americans are part of the group.
Though beer and hard liquor is around him, he does not drink at all. In fact, one of his amigos is his AA sponsor. He's done time in prison and divorced from his wife. He has his son Jessie (Jeremy Ray Valdez) living with him. Jeremy is in his last year of high school and studying to be a college student.
Just moved in on the second floor on top of his garage is a very spiritually minded African American, Lena (Ericka Alexander) who does not get along at Che at first.
However, things get all turned around when he finds photographic evidence that his son Jesse is gay. He beats his son and throws him out of his apartment.
Not a typical gang banger story at all and as in real life, everything does not resolve into one neat package. However, this is a good glimpse of of seeing realities in different perceptions and a story of transformation. Definitely not for kids but a very good one for those who like to keep an open mind.
Terrific - Real - Get's S.F. Life right
qtwiq20 August 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I grew up in the Mission, lived there 27 years of my life. This movie is dead on. Down to the way people are and who knows who to survive. The artwork on the streets is real and inspiring. The Apartments are so true to the rent controlled units I lived in on Mission and Valencia.
I miss my low rider vato Juan. High school was like nothing else and this movie brought it all back.
Ben Bratt - I think I am in love.
Why oh Why did I move to TX. I need to go home to SF.
I miss it all the food, culture, weather and life style.
Everyone can be who they are and it is alright in the end.
I miss my low rider vato Juan. High school was like nothing else and this movie brought it all back.
Ben Bratt - I think I am in love.
Why oh Why did I move to TX. I need to go home to SF.
I miss it all the food, culture, weather and life style.
Everyone can be who they are and it is alright in the end.
From the Thorn emerges the Flower....
gattonero97526 July 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Great film perfect casting for Benjamin Bratt, as the ex-convict in recovering alcoholic Che. Jeremy Ray Valdez also does a good job as his son Jesse. Erika Alexander also does a good job as Che's neighbor. also on board good supporting role is Jesse Borrego Benjamin's costar from the film Blood In Blood Out it's nice to see then back together again sharing the scene. Jesse's wife is played by Talia Soto who happens to be Benjamin's real wife in real life. special mention goes also to the bully "Smoke" in this movie played by Alex Hernandez in his film debut. He reminded me of a young , latino version of the late great rapper artist Tuoak.
One of the best
tappywazoh8 January 2017
This movie is smart, passionate, down to earth, poignant, heartbreaking and heartwarming. Superb acting, scenery, setting and supporting cast.
Benjamin Bratt and Erika Alexander are inspired in starring roles. But the supporting cast is rich with excellent actors. The resultant effect is a true ensemble feeling. Intertwined with the main story - about a man and his high school son who is emerging as a gay man - are many subplots that help paint a richer picture of the barrio and the culture:
There are the low rider cars - colorful and flamboyant. And there is the life of the neighborhood, hanging on the stoops, getting along with the people next door.
This is a must see.
Benjamin Bratt and Erika Alexander are inspired in starring roles. But the supporting cast is rich with excellent actors. The resultant effect is a true ensemble feeling. Intertwined with the main story - about a man and his high school son who is emerging as a gay man - are many subplots that help paint a richer picture of the barrio and the culture:
There are the low rider cars - colorful and flamboyant. And there is the life of the neighborhood, hanging on the stoops, getting along with the people next door.
This is a must see.
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