Bad Actor

"Regardless of the nature of sexual violence crimes themselves, these cases often become thorny when they become media sensations, as political and even economic interests come into play. The Mexican film Bad Actor (Un actor malo) starts with the good intentions of raising reflections on this matter, through a rape case on the set of a film. Contrary to what the movie's promotional materials might suggest, director Jorge Cuchí (50 or Two Whales Meet on the Beach) leaves no room for ambiguity of the facts, and the film becomes a portrayal of the complex network of interests and systemic mechanisms to try to silence victims. However, without going into details, it's worth noting that the climax of the movie loses its course, veering towards an ending that oscillates between the pure intention to shock and crude –and dangerous– simplifications. Nevertheless, if this is kept in mind, it's worth watching to spark conversations that must be had about gender violence in Mexico – and elsewhere."