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Deseada (1951): A Roberto Gavaldón Film Exploring Melodrama and Pre-Hispanic Themes at Juan March Institute

This classic Mexican film noir blends with rural Yucatán settings, featuring scenes filmed at Chichén Itzá.

"Deseada," a 1951 film by Roberto Gavaldón, offers a unique blend of melodrama and film noir set within Mexico's rural Yucatán Peninsula. This compelling work from the Mexican "golden age" explores human destiny influenced by pre-Hispanic themes, with powerful scenes filmed at the ancient Chichén Itzá archaeological site. It features cinematography by Alex Phillips and a screenplay by José Revueltas.

About Deseada at Juan March Institute in Madrid

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Deseada at Juan March Institute in Madrid

Exhibition summary

Deseada is a 1951 film by Roberto Gavaldón, known for its blend of melodrama and film noir elements set in the rural Yucatán peninsula of Mexico. The narrative incorporates pre-Hispanic themes, with scenes filmed at the Chichén Itzá archaeological site.

Curatorial context

Deseada, a 1951 film directed by Roberto Gavaldón, is recognized for its unique approach to the Mexican "golden age" of cinema, infusing urban film noir atmospheres into a rural setting. The film unfolds in the Yucatán Peninsula, drawing parallels between the characters' destinies and Greek tragedy, with pre-Hispanic forces influencing their lives. Notable scenes were shot at the archaeological site of Chichén Itzá, set against the backdrop of passion and romantic drama. The film credits Alex Phillips for cinematography, José Revueltas for the screenplay, and Manuel Álvarez Bravo for still photography. The production also involved contributions from Maya poet Antonio Mediz Bolio and composer Augusto “Guty” Cárdenas, with a specially designed initial credit sequence by Ernesto Guasp.

Admission and ticket notes

Information regarding tickets or admission to view this film within the 'Antes de América: la exposición expandida' exhibition is not available on this page. Visitors are directed to check the main exhibition details for access information.

Deseada key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Deseada at Juan March Institute in Madrid

Venue
Juan March Institute
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
Information not currently available
Artist line / attribution
Directed by Roberto Gavaldón, with cinematography by Alex Phillips, screenplay by José Revueltas, and still photography by Manuel Álvarez Bravo. Features contributions from Antonio Mediz Bolio and Augusto “Guty” Cárdenas, with credits designed by Ernesto Guasp.
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