EL REMOLINO (THE SWIRL)

Situated on the banks of the Usumacinta River in Chiapas, Mexico, the town of El Remolino suffers from some of the country's worst flooding. Nearly every rainfall swells the river, bringing torrential floods until the streets and roads are covered in water.

This lyrical documentary surveys the social and ecological impact - from schools that can't open to farms that can no longer operate - and introduces us to residents who are striving to create a more progressive, sustainable future.

Among them is Esther, a devoted young mother, trying to imbue her daughter with the strength and resolve needed for a better life; and Pedro, a farmer, who must defend both his sexual orientation and his dreams. We follow them through their personal universes, witnessing their brave way of life and their inspiring outlook on love, family, education and memory.

Official Selection, Ambulante Film Festival
Official Selection, Locarno Film Festival
Official Selection, Environmental Film Festival
Official Selection, Camden International Film Festival
Official Selection, Docs/MX Film Festival

"The rise of female documentary makers in Mexico.... The most notable included The Swirl (El Remolino) by Laura Herrero Garvin, a sensitively observant portrait of an oft-flooded hamlet on the banks of a wide river in the southern state of Chiapas." - Sight and Sound