Culture

"Mirando al Cielo" Brings the Story of Mexico's Child Martyr to the Big Screen

"Mirando al Cielo" brings to the big screen the inspiring true story of Saint José Sánchez del Río, a child martyr of religious persecution in Mexico. Directed by Antonio Pelaez and produced by Mediaquest, the film interweaves powerful teachings in family and spiritual life.

Mexicanist

May 8, 2023 — 3 min read

Jose writes to his mother. Credit: Mediaquest

Religious persecution and martyrdom are not just stories of the past. "Mirando al Cielo," a new film produced by Mediaquest, brings to light the events that took place in Mexico between 1926 and 1929, during the implementation of the "Calles Law," which trampled on the liberties of Catholics. The film tells the story of Saint José Sánchez del Río, who was only 13 years old when he joined the army of the Cristeros, a group of Catholics who fought for religious freedom.

Written and directed by Antonio Pelaez, the film is set to release nationwide on May 10 at Cinépolis. The film was shot in several locations in Mexico, including San Miguel el Alto, Arandas, and Hacienda La Providencia in Guadalajara. The cast includes actors such as Julián, who portrays José Sánchez del Río, Luis Xavier as Rafael Picazo, and Estela Cano as María, José's mother.

The story of "Mirando al Cielo" interweaves great teachings in family and spiritual life, such as the theme of vocation, the importance of Christian marriage, and the exercise of virtues such as faith, fidelity, and fortitude. The film also serves as a tribute to the martyrs who gave their lives for God and their faith, an example for young people and families today to raise their eyes to Heaven.

"Magnificent film!" said His Eminence Cardinal Juan Sandoval Iñiguez, who attended a special screening of the film. "Let everyone see it because it is a lesson in true history, real history, not fictitious."

After a successful release in the United States, "Mirando al Cielo" is set to open in various cities across Mexico, including Tijuana, Monterrey, and Mexico City. The film invites audiences to reflect on their lives and ask themselves, "What am I doing to reach Heaven and defend the Kingdom of God?"

For director and producer Antonio Pelaez, the film represents a culmination of the mission of his production house Mediaquest, which aims to promote values that dignify man and family through healthy and quality entertainment. Don't miss the opportunity to see this inspiring film, which promises to transcend the hearts and lives of those who watch it.

For more information on "Mirando al Cielo," follow them on social media and visit their website at http://www.mirandoalcielo.mx/.

Synopsis of the movie "Mirando al cielo"

Mirando al cielo is one of the many wonderful stories that exist in Mexico. During the religious persecution in Mexico from 1926 to 1929, Jose Sanchez del Rio, a 13-year-old boy from Sahuayo, Michoacan, asks his parents' blessing to enlist in the Cristero army to fight in defense of his tea against the federal army of President Calles.

In a heroic act during one of the battles, he is captured for saving the life of his general and taken to his town to be executed on a charge of high treason. The paradox of the story is that the highest authority in the town and the one who would have to give the order for his execution is Deputy Rafael Picaro... José's godfather.

Mirando al cielo, is a film of love, forgiveness, and betrayal, inspired by real events. A story that regardless of sex or age, captivates the viewer's attention from the first moment. Mirando al cielo, is an entertaining and moving story in times of persecution, where a family's love for God was greater than their fears.