The Freedom of Fierro sometimes tells its story with layers, a method of storytelling that many documentary viewers see. We see him do things like hang on the rooftop of his apartment in Mexico City, smoking a cigarette. At other times, he goes to the optometrist, or buys new shoes, things people do after finally leaving prison. Forty years prior, the Republic of Texas gave him a death sentence for a crime despite lack of evidence. Now that he’s out, he does things that normal, free citizens do, footage that the film pairs with his narration. The narration details his self harm attempts as well as the torture he received during his incarceration.
Sure, there are moments in The Freedom of Fierro that lack what is arguably marco storytelling about post incarceration. But then again, that’s what Fierro is there for, as he does things that normal people in their sixties don’t. Most people his age have retirement, but he sits in his little apartment, writing, by hand, a cover letter. That’s all viewers need to see to know that social assistance for returning former incarcerees and Mexicans are insufficient. Another vessel for sociological commentary is director Santiago Esteinou himself who, even if he’s nice, treats Fierro like most people. They have a contentious friendship, but he still does things like take him out to camping in presumably Indigenous territory. He watches the sun set, an everyday occurrence he didn’t use to see, and one wishes most incarcerees do.
- Rated: NR
- Genre: Documentary
- Release Date: 9/11/2024
- Directed by: Santiago Esteinou
- Produced by: Axel Pedraza, Javier Campos López, José Miguel Díaz Salinas, Santiago Esteinou
- Studio: EFICINE 189, Fomento al Cine Mexicano (FOCINE)
