The next two films in the Movies That Matter Festival shed timely light on new challenges to fair housing in the United States and increasing efforts to curb consumer overindulgence.
The nonprofit film series continues Sundays and Thursdays at 2 p.m. throughout March at the Cine+Lago Theater in Plaza Bugambilias, Ajijic.
Current threats to U.S. social services include a new push to terminate grants to nonprofit organizations that enforce the Fair Housing Act, part of the 1968 Civil Rights Act. The loss of grants disbursed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) could lead to a resurgence of housing discrimination and eviction. “The Banker,” a true story from the 1950s, will be shown on Sunday, March 9. Produced by and starring Samuel L. Jackson, this drama celebrates the courage of two Black businessmen who challenge Jim Crow racial discrimination. They mentor a young White friend to front for them so they can buy real estate and banks, allowing them to sell, rent, and lend to African Americans. Litigation following their arrest helped pave the way for the passing of the Fair Housing Act.
“Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy” (March 13), a 2024 UK documentary, uses engaging AI graphics to remind viewers of the global ecological disaster driven by excessive production and consumer overbuying. The film is particularly timely as the “Low Buy 2025” and “No Buy 2025” trends grow in popularity. It also explores new boycotts against sellers who have abandoned their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) commitments. The documentary reveals the covert tactics used to keep customers locked in an endless cycle of consumption.
Upcoming films include a premiere screening in Mexico of the Italian hit “There’s Still Tomorrow” (March 16), about a mistreated wife in the 1940s who seeks to improve her life. On March 20, “Forbidden: Undocumented and Queer in Rural America” showcases the story of a young Mexican “Dreamer” activist fighting for immigration and LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S. On March 23, “Io Capitano,” a 2024 Oscar nominee for Best International Feature Film, will debut in Mexico. It dramatizes the extreme dangers faced by two African teenagers on their perilous journey to Europe. “Still Working 9 to 5” (March 27) reunites the stars of “9 to 5” to assess the progress of women workers since 1980. The final film, “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” (March 30), is a beloved classic about a novice senator (Jimmy Stewart) confronting political corruption at home and in D.C.
The Lake Chapala Chapter of Democrats Abroad is raising funds with its Film Festival to support its non-partisan U.S. voting assistance efforts at Lakeside. A reduced-price Season Pass or individual tickets can be purchased online. For more information, see the Movies That Matter ad in this issue of the Reporter on page 17.