Otra conquista, La
You don't have to go to the museum to view art.
Story
"The Other Conquest" tells the story of Topiltzin (Damian Delgado), a fictional illegitimate son of Moctezuma, emperor of the Aztecs. Surviving 1521's bloody invasion of Mexico by Hernando Cortez (Inaki Aierra), Topiltzin is captured and taken to a monastery for conversion to Christianity. Topiltzin must choose whether to honor his heritage and embrace the Aztec gods or accept Christianity. Christianity's destruction of native Mexican faiths is movingly portrayed here, and we come to see the indigenous people's eventual amalgamation of Catholic and Aztec deities. The film's powerful imagery and Topiltzin's compelling personal turmoil are potent and memorable components of the story. While some of the dream-like sequences might be a bit vague, the plot holds up well.
Acting
Delgado stands out as Topiltzin, playing a tortured, strong-willed individual who can barely comprehend how suddenly and irrevocably his world has changed. At his best, the fine line between actor and character is erased, and we are completely convinced of his pain. There are also some powerful performances here in the roles of Topiltzin's capturer, Hernando Cortez, and Topiltzin's brother.
Direction
Salvador Carrasco brings his disturbing vision of the conquest of the Aztecs clearly and cleverly to the screen. Though parts of the film drag, Carrasco elicits strong performances from his cast members, whom bring a commanding presence and intelligence to the film. Enhancing the fine direction are a masterful score and rich, glowing camera work.
Bottom Line
An incendiary mix of politics, religion, war, violence and personal turbulence -- not an easy film, but a complicated work of art.