Movie Recommendation: "Sin Nombre"

Sin Nombre (2009), directed by Cary Fukunaga, is a pertinent and beautiful movie about the hope for a brighter future in the face of despair and retaining that hope even when its known to be in vain. Focusing on the relationship between Sayra, a Honduran girl emigrating through Mexico to the U.S., and Willy, a Mexican gang member on the run from his gang, the movie traces their burgeoning relationship and journey to the U.S. Sin Nombre makes strong commentary on gang violence and immigration without ever resorting to a preachy tone. It is beautifully shot and moments that could easily be emotionally exploitative are handled with a minimalistic hand, which actually helps to heighten the severity of the issues being addressed by showing how everyday these moments have become to some. Sin Nombre is a tactful, yet powerful movie that I strongly recommend to everyone. The only complaint I have is that the movie could have been longer and some points feel rushed, but this is an easily ignored shortcoming in an otherwise brilliant movie.