Raymond (Edgar de Santiago) is a 21-year-old DREAMer who faces deportation following a routine traffic stop. His fortune takes a slight turn for the better as his father awaits him in Mexico City. Miguel (Enrique Arreola), a retired teacher, struggles with painkiller addiction due to a past accident that left him with a back injury.
Prior to that, he battled alcoholism, a vice that drove Raymond's mother to flee to America to escape their abusive marriage. Miguel's feelings toward his son are a complex mix of love and resentment. Raymond secures a job at a call center and initially thrives in this role. While there, he crosses paths with Hector (Axel Alcántara), a somewhat older man with a more carefree outlook on life.
Their friendship deepens over drinks at a bar catering to tourists. Raymond feels overwhelmed when he’s mistaken for a tourist, and Hector introduces him to a local restaurant he frequents. Here, they encounter two young women who take an interest in them. Monica (Fátima Favela) appears particularly drawn to Raymond. However, a cultural clash and Miguel's offensive comments leads to a falling out. The question remains: Will Raymond obtain a visa to reunite with his family in Texas? And if not, can he establish a new life in Mexico?
Accidental Expat is a simple drama with a complex message. It is a little slow, and the acting skews towards melodrama but those who enjoy a dramatic romance with a political twist will very much enjoy Raymond’s story. Accidental Expat is a typical modern drama that has more than a little educational use. Those Teaching Latino/Mexican-American/Chicano studies, Law, and global studies will see the most classroom benefit in Accidental Expat. Highly Recommended.
Where does this title belong on public library shelves?
Accidental Expat belongs on drama shelves. Consider placing it next to bilingual titles.
What type of university classroom could use this title?
Those studying immigration law, Latino culture, or family dynamics will find the most use from Accidental Expat in the classroom.