Roma

| 2018

Directed by: Alfonso Cuarón

Main Plot

"Roma," directed by Alfonso Cuarón, is a poignant, semi-autobiographical film set in 1970s Mexico City. It follows Cleo, a domestic worker for a middle-class family, as she navigates personal and societal challenges. The film intricately portrays her daily life, capturing moments of joy, sorrow, and resilience. Cleo's story is interwoven with the family's own struggles, including marital discord and financial instability. Against the backdrop of political turmoil and social upheaval, "Roma" explores themes of class, gender, and identity. Through its intimate and visually stunning narrative, the film offers a deeply humanistic portrayal of love, loss, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Characters

  • Yalitza Aparicio plays Cleo, a domestic worker who cares for a middle-class family's children, navigating personal and societal challenges in 1970s Mexico.
  • Marina de Tavira plays Sofía, a mother struggling to maintain her family amidst personal and societal turmoil in 1970s Mexico.
  • Diego Cortina Autrey plays Toño, one of the children in the family. His character adds depth to the family dynamic and highlights the innocence amidst the unfolding drama.

Ending Explained

In the concluding scenes of Alfonso Cuarón's "Roma," the narrative reaches an emotional and poignant resolution. Cleo, the domestic worker, accompanies the family she works for on a beach vacation. During this trip, Cleo bravely rescues two of the children from drowning, despite not knowing how to swim herself. This act of heroism cements her integral role within the family, highlighting her unwavering dedication and love. Upon returning home, the family begins to adapt to their new reality after the parents' separation. The mother, Sofia, reassures her children that they will move forward together. Cleo, having experienced a personal tragedy with a stillbirth earlier in the film, finds a sense of belonging and acceptance within the family unit. The final scene shows Cleo resuming her daily chores, symbolizing the continuity of life and her enduring presence in the household. The film closes with a shot of the sky, suggesting a sense of hope and resilience amidst the challenges faced by the characters.

Alfonso Cuarón Drama Yalitza Aparicio Marina de Tavira Diego Cortina Autrey