Day of The Dead

Explores the special objects and rituals of the annual Mexican celebration of All Souls Day, which is observed on the first day of November. The film examines the Mexican philosophy of death, and the ways in which the culture faces mortality. A rich variety of folk objects, created each year for the celebration, are shown in detail. The Mexican folk music that accompanies the film was composed and performed by Laurindo Almeida. San Francisco International Film Festival winner, 1958.

15 minutes

Deals with the special objects and events surrounding the annual Mexican celebration of “All Souls Day.”  On display is a rich flood of traditional folk art, illustrating the way that Mexicans have over the years come to terms with death. With a moving guitar score by Laurindo Almeida.

1957
Day of the Dead is an exploration of All Souls’ Day, celebrated in Mexico on the first day of November.
The film examines the Mexican philosophy of death and the ways in which the people have come to terms with mortality.  It shows the rich variety of folk-art objects made each year for the holiday as well as an intimate view of the traditions, rituals, and people involved.
Charles rarely talked about his time in Mexico in the 1930s, but in working on the project, he did recall how involved locals were in the festival.
The production of this film was sponsored by the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Guitar score by Laurindo Almeida.

14 minutes, 25 seconds.  Color.