Blossoms of Fire

Filmed in southeastern Mexico, director Maureen Gosling's enchanting 2000 documentary Blossoms of Fire profiles the indomitable matriarchal Zapotec culture in Juchitan—featured in the paintings of Frida Kahlo—whose traditions are the stuff of folklore and legend. Presenting a truly absorbing portrait of strong-willed women clothed in beautiful dresses adorned with flowers—seen here at work and play—Gosling resists the temptation to idealize the women (or perpetuate longstanding myths, such as those found in an Elle magazine article that described them as “red-hot mamas”), instead capturing their day-to-day lives with charm and lyricism. The pre-modern but surprisingly egalitarian culture—rooted in a strong work ethic for both husbands and wives and fierce loyalty to family—is examined in a narrative framework that also encompasses the women's progressive politics and tolerance of alternative lifestyles vis-à-vis the rest of Mexican society. A sparkling celebration of humanist philosophy, the beautifully shot Blossoms of Fire is recommended. Aud: C, P. [Note: DVD extras include the 22-minute location featurette “Sketches of Juchitán,” two photo galleries (“Pleasures of My Land” and “The Filming”), and trailers. Bottom line: a good extras package for a solid documentary.] (E. Hulse)