Under The Same Moon (2008)

This is a glimpse of reality
This film is an amazing glimpse of the life that some of our community members endure by having to live in the shadows. As a citizen who is close enough to see all of the negatives that undocumented community members experience, I know that their experience is usually much worse and more terrifying--and that there are those who are so privileged in this country that immorally take advantage of their plight. I absolutely recommend this brilliant production to all--it will be what I will be giving for every birthday and to all on my Christmas list as soon as it is available! I am surprised that people aren't now flocking to the theater to see "Under the Same Moon!" This movie makes a strong statement about love and family ties without judgment of nationalistic politics.

Mixed feelings
"Under the Same Moon" is the touching story of a young boy living in Mexico with his Grandmother while his Mother tries to create a better life for them in America. After being separated for four years, Carlitos' Grandmother dies, leaving him all alone with no way to contact his Mother. When a friend refuses to help him cross the U.S. border, he seeks other means to find his Mother in Los Angeles. The film is almost entirely in Spanish with English subtitles.

Although touching and very funny (Enrique steals the show!), this film glorifies illegal immigration, insults people who have immigrated legally to the United States, and makes me wonder if Mexicans see all Americans as rich people who want to exploit them. I can say that this movie really got into my head and heart and made me ponder this issue.

As an American whose ancestors came through Ellis Island, I am angered that anyone would attempt to take advantage of the nation my family adopted legally. As a Southern Nevadan, I see a partial reality of illegal immigration up close, and it's not pretty. As a Christian, I am humbled to remove the plank of judgment from my own eye before plucking the splinter of illegal immigration from my brother's. Illegal immigration is not just against the law. It is sin. And since I am not without sin, myself, I can only drop my stone and pray for my brothers and sisters. My intent is not to sound preachy. The film is of such a cutting-edge political issue, however, that it could be considered propaganda designed to incite illegal behavior. It is only the fact that I AM a Christian that I was able to see value in the movie relationships and drive that led this boy to pursue reunion with his mother.