Do you think the main premise of the film Desierto ( Mexico, 2016), a vigilante hunting immigrants in the desert along the Mexico/USA border is far fetched? Is it not believable? Defend your point with examples from the film

Answer 1

"Desierto," directed by Jonás Cuarón, presents a harrowing narrative that centers around a vigilante, Sam (played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan), who hunts down a group of immigrants trying to cross the Mexico-United States border. While the premise may seem extreme or sensationalized, it is not entirely far-fetched, especially when considering the real-world issues surrounding immigration and border security.

Believability of the Premise:

1. Real-Life Context: The film taps into genuine tensions surrounding immigration and border enforcement that exist in contemporary society. The U.S.-Mexico border has long been a site of conflict, with reports of violence against migrants being alarming. The phenomenon of vigilante justice, where individuals take the law into their own hands, can be traced in various forms across history and continues to emerge in discussions about immigration.

2. Characterization of the Vigilante: Sam’s character represents a form of xenophobic extremism that, while extreme, reflects a certain reality seen in some groups and individuals who believe they are taking a stand against illegal immigration. There are real-life examples of individuals or groups who have engaged in self-declared patrols of the border, claiming to protect their communities from perceived threats. This notion of "frontier justice" resonates with elements of historical American folklore regarding the Wild West.

3. Survival Themes: The film's portrayal of the extreme conditions of the desert and the desperation of the migrants highlights a very real and tragic aspect of border crossings. The danger of the desert environment, coupled with hostile encounters, speaks to the life-or-death stakes involved for many migrants. The film underscores these themes through tense and suspenseful scenarios that echo the experiences of some individuals attempting to cross the border.

Examples from the Film:

1. The Desert Setting: The arid and unforgiving terrain highlights the perilous journey that many migrants undertake. The unforgiving environment is not merely a backdrop but serves as a character itself, contributing to the tension and survival aspect of the narrative.

2. Sam's Motivation: Throughout the film, Sam exhibits a deep-seated belief that he is securing his territory by hunting migrants. His actions can be correlated with real-life instances where individuals or groups feel empowered to take direct action against perceived threats to their way of life, however misguided those beliefs may be.

3. Tension and Pacing: The film effectively builds suspense through its minimalist style and lingering shots on the vast desert landscape. This choice reflects the isolation that many migrants face, mirroring the emotional and physical pressures they endure. The tension created through these elements is reflective of real fears and experiences associated with migration.

In conclusion, while "Desierto" may amplify certain elements for dramatic effect, its premise of a vigilante stalking immigrants is not entirely outside the realm of possibility. Tied to real societal issues, the film serves as a commentary on the complexities of immigration, fear, and the lengths individuals will go to in an increasingly polarized world. The blend of fiction and reality makes its premise both engaging and, to some extent, believable.