Octavio Mendoza

In 1950s Mexico City, William Lee, an American ex-pat in his late forties, leads a solitary life amidst a small American community. However, the arrival in town of Eugene Allerton, a young student, stirs William into finally establishing a meaningful connection with someone.

QUERIDA. In the heart of Mexico City, at the legendary Barba Azul, a shy office worker longs for love and adventure. This visually vibrant and deeply moving film explores identity, self-discovery, and the transformative power of confidence. Struggling with his sexual identity, the young man seeks guidance from a mysterious fortune teller who sets him on a path of acceptance and courage. Drawn to a lively cantina, he becomes enchanted by a charismatic bartender and, fueled by tequila and a surreal night of magical realism, dares to step on stage. His heartfelt performance opens the way to connection, and in a tender finale, the two leave together, hinting at love and self-acceptance. A raw yet enchanting tale blending realism and fantasy, QUERIDA celebrates the bravery of embracing one’s true self.

Following The Witch of Texcoco as she prepares for a defining concert, the film traces her fearless challenge to gender norms while celebrating Mexican tradition. In parallel, director Gabs Nápoles undergoes a personal transformation, weaving a shared exploration of identity, body, and belonging.

After a mysterious encounter with a shaman in Texcoco, Mexico, Octavio Mendoza, a Mexico City based musician, starts a journey to reconcile with his femininity through his music, in order to become “La Bruja de Texcoco”.