Vanilla

coming of age in a loud, crowded Hispanic home filled with women of all ages. Very relatable and a clear homage to director Mayra Hermosillo’s upbringing. Incredibly funny, especially naming the parrot “Hitler” and the dance sequence that is similar to the one in Little Miss Sunshine. I have never heard the “efe” language outside of my own immediate family (that I also don’t fully understand sometimes), but it made this film even more relatable to me. I was glad to have been able to ask Hermosillo a quick question on her approach to directing this vibrant cast in a way that was respectful to her family and authentic to the way she remembered them. Each character is so unique and has their own story/personality that make this film what it is. Such a beautiful story, highly recommend if/when it goes on streaming.