Table of Contents
The cinematic landscape of Mexico is poised for a significant enhancement with the re-release of “Midaq Alley” (“El Callejón de los Milagros“), a film that played a pivotal role in catapulting Salma Hayek to stardom. Directed by Jorge Fons and originally released in 1995, this classic is being reintroduced by Sony Pictures across Mexico and Latin America.
This event marks a crucial milestone in the ongoing celebration of Mexican cinema.
This announcement follows the recent closure of the Classics section at Spain’s San Sebastian Film Festival, highlighting the ongoing evolution within the film industry. The newly restored 4K version of “Midaq Alley” not only commemorates the film’s 30th anniversary but also reaffirms its significance as one of the most important Mexican films ever produced.
The film has received numerous international accolades and represented Mexico at the prestigious 68th Academy Awards.
The Story Behind the Film
Based on the acclaimed novel by Egyptian Nobel Prize laureate Naguib Mahfouz, with a screenplay by Vicente Leñero, “Midaq Alley” was produced by the legendary Alfredo Ripstein.
Today, the legacy of Alameda Films endures under the guidance of his grandson, Daniel Birman Ripstein. Set in a vibrant back street of downtown Mexico City, the film explores the interconnected lives of its inhabitants with remarkable depth.
The narrative is divided into four distinct segments.
The first three segments focus on the main characters, while the concluding segment weaves the story together. Each segment begins with a pivotal scene—a game of dominoes—capturing the same moment through the perspectives of different characters. This unique storytelling technique highlights the interconnectedness of their lives and enriches the film’s narrative.
A Celebration of Cultural Impact
Daniel Birman Ripstein expressed his excitement regarding the film’s return to theaters, emphasizing that this partnership with Sony highlights the film’s enduring impact and cultural significance. He remarked, “This new release will allow a new generation of audiences to discover this magical film in a way it has never been seen before.” The restoration process, which took four years, underscores the commitment to preserving cinematic heritage.
Philip Alexander, Vice President and General Manager of Sony Pictures Releasing México, shared similar sentiments, stating that they are delighted to take part in this significant cinematic celebration. The theatrical run is scheduled to begin on October 23, with Sony overseeing distribution throughout Mexico and Latin America, reinforcing the film’s relevance in contemporary culture.
Legacy and Cast of Stars
In addition to marking Salma Hayek’s screen debut, “Midaq Alley” features a distinguished ensemble of renowned Mexican actors. The film includes performances by Bruno Bichir, known for his role in “Ozark”; Daniel Giménez Cacho from “Zama”; and Juan Manuel Bernal, who starred in “Monarch.” Other notable actors include Ernesto Gómez Cruz, María Rojo, Tiaré Scanda, and Margarita Sanz, all of whom contribute to the film’s celebrated narrative.
The upcoming release of “Midaq Alley” not only showcases the film’s artistic achievements but also highlights its role in shaping the landscape of Mexican cinema. As audiences prepare to revisit this timeless masterpiece, it serves as a potent reminder of the power of storytelling and the critical importance of cultural preservation in the ever-evolving world of film.
