Weaving the Past is a most unusual and satisfying film. The combination between documentation and dramatization pulled me in and held me throughout. The film challenged me to ask many questions about connections existing in my own life and in my relationship with my ancestors. In many ways, this film has a real resonance with those raised in more traditional societies, like mine, where the past and its people are never really dead and gone, but continue to live. The film documents the journey that filmmaker Walter Dominguez takes to learn about his own grandfather's early life - a mysterious and cloudy past. He also determines to locate his grandfather's family of origin in Mexico. Along the way we learn much Mexican and U.S. Southwest history that is essential to understand the context of the life of Emilio Hernandez, Walter's grandfather, a Mexican-born crusader for social justice among immigrant workers. Walter takes us along as he interviews expert historians in the U.S. and Mexico, as well as a collection of ordinary, but truly compelling people he meets who either knew Emilio or knew the people who influence Emilio as a young man. The re-creation scenes of key moments in the relationship of Emilio with the people in his life who deeply influenced him worked so well to get you involved and caring about Emilio and his life. They were some of the film's most touching moments.
There is so much to recommend this film. For those who have a strong interest in reconnecting with their own roots and ancestors, this documentary will leave you inspired and energized to go on your own journey. There is much important and little-known history that you learn along the way. The tragic mistreatment of Mexico's indigenous people is a story that I did not know about, but which left me very moved and personally affected in a deep way. I am so glad that Dominguez told this story, because it really needs to be revealed. There are other stories within this film that will rivet you, too.
Most importantly, there is a deep spirituality that emanates from the film which is not about doctrine or formal religion. Though Dominguez's grandfather eventually became a Methodist minister, and there is some interesting history revealed about this, the real meaning is much deeper. It really is a "universal" film that can touch you on many levels - whatever your background. You will really feel this story in your soul and it will stick with you. I hope you take the opportunity to see this beautifully made and meaningful documentary.