We here at AICN are often asked why we don't cover more of the small indie films that are out there, many times struggling for a bit of the limelight. Well, the answer is quite simple really. We don't hear anything about them, not enough to do a story anyway. We have, however, covered quite a few, usually as a result of festivals like SXSW and Sundance, but for whatever reason the indie filmmakers seldom get in contact with us on their own and we can't help them if we don't know about their projects. You have to trust us gals/guys, we want the "little films" to succeed. Some of these small films; Colin Fitz, Six String Samuri, Gods and Monsters, Traveler, Amerika Perfect, Lewis and Clark and George, among others have received alot of press from our site, and we'd like to cover more. Well today AICN received the following report on her film from director-writer Alicia Villarreal-Wallach. Growing up in Texas and having traveled to the interior of Mexico some 30 times, and being very familar with their combined history, I (Father Geek) can see this film clearly on that screen that rests before my mind's eye. I hope to see it someday at my local widescreen, uber-sound cinema too. Here's Alicia's story...
"Atanasia" is based on the life of my great-great grandmother, Atanasia Escobedo. It is the story of her struggle to protect her family from the forces of war and political unrest, of her hope for a better life, and of her ultimate triumph over the tragedy she endures.
Beginning in 19th century Mexico amid the tension of internal political conflict, the film follows Atanasia as she embarks on her adult life; the death of her first husband in civil war is the first of many tragedies she must face. With the invasion of the French army in 1861, a newly remarried Atanasia is left alone to raise her family as her husband defends his country. When Mexico City is taken, she is forced to flee with her children to a new, unfamiliar destination: Texas, where she will face the greatest challenge of her life, and upon which will rest the future of generations to come.
As a film, "Atanasia" exists on three levels: 1) as a straightforward narrative, a traditional drama; 2) as a piece in which emphasis is placed on the "inner life" of our main character; and 3) as a piece in which the "metaphysical" is acknowledged, with both the script and cinematography seeking to reflect the interior, "spiritual" journey of our protagonist.
From its initial beginnings eight years ago as a story idea (my father's) "Atanasia" has grown into a project composed of over 100 volunteers (professionals, friends, family, etc.). Six South Texas ranchers are among this group, and are donating all horses, riders, cattle and other livestock needed, as well as unlimited use of their ranches for location work.
In addition, the primary "Mexico" set is under construction at my family's own small ranch, while our South Texas set is being provided by the Risken Ranch (which was once La Atravesada Ranch, the same ranch that my great-great grandmother Atanasia journeyed to, and where my great-great grandfather Encarnacion was murdered during a raid; this, of course is in the script).
We are also being aided by the Texas A&M University-Kingsville, which is generously providing us with half of our costume needs. Other benefactors include Lora Flinn, audio engineer and actress. Lora is lending us her sound equipment and considerable expertise; she is currently employed as an Audio Engineer, Flight Specialist at Mission Control of the NASA Johnson Space Center here in Houston, Texas.
Everyone involved is a volunteer, and we have been working hard to put together all of the elements needed to make a quality production. However, our small family business has already invested all that it can for the moment, and we are trying to find other investors or even another production company interested in going into a co-production arrangement.
It is for this reason that I hope to interest you in our production; while there is never a guarantee of anything, I believe it could only help us to receive a mention on your site.
Sincerely,
Alicia Villarreal-Wallach
Writer/Director/Producer/Lead Actress/Composer
