Even The Rain También La Lluvia

Even the Rain: A Cinematic Exploration of History, Violence, and Memory

Even the Rain (También la lluvia), Icíar Bollaín's 2010 masterpiece, is far more than just a film about making a movie. It's a powerful and poignant exploration of history, specifically the Cochabamba Water War in Bolivia, interwoven with the fictional narrative of a film crew shooting a depiction of the Christopher Columbus conquest of the Americas. This complex layering of narratives allows Bollaín to dissect themes of exploitation, colonialism, globalization, and the enduring impact of historical trauma on contemporary society. The film's title itself, "Even the Rain," subtly hints at the pervasive and inescapable nature of these historical echoes, suggesting that even the seemingly benign elements of nature are intertwined with the violence of the past. This article will delve into the film's intricate plot, its masterful use of cinematic techniques, and its enduring relevance in understanding the complexities of global power dynamics and the fight for social justice.

The Intertwined Narratives: A Delicate Dance Between Fiction and Reality

The film masterfully juxtaposes two seemingly disparate narratives: the present-day filming of a movie about Columbus's arrival in the Americas, and the unfolding of the real-life Cochabamba Water War. The fictional film, titled "Columbus," stars Costa, a Spanish actor playing Columbus, and Daniel, a Bolivian actor portraying a native inhabitant. Their interactions reflect the power dynamics between colonizer and colonized, a dynamic that mirrors the relationships developing on the set between the crew and the Bolivian extras.

The director of "Columbus," Sebastián, is obsessed with historical accuracy, often at the expense of the well-being of his cast and crew. He's driven by a desire to create a historically authentic representation of conquest, while seemingly oblivious to the parallels between his own actions and the historical events he's portraying. His disregard for the local population's concerns reveals a crucial point: the continuation of colonialist attitudes even in contemporary contexts. This becomes increasingly evident as the film crew's experience becomes intertwined with the escalating water crisis in Cochabamba.

The Cochabamba Water War, a real-life event that took place in 2000, forms the backdrop and ultimately, the central focus of the film. The privatization of water resources by Bechtel, a multinational corporation, resulted in widespread protests and clashes between Bolivian citizens and the authorities. This crisis underscores the global power imbalances that underpin neo-colonial exploitation. The film effectively shows how multinational corporations, mirroring the actions of colonial powers, prioritize profit over the basic human needs of the population. The film doesn't shy away from depicting the brutal crackdown on protestors, highlighting the state’s complicity in maintaining the status quo that benefits corporations at the expense of its citizens.

The convergence of these two narratives isn't accidental; it's a deliberate and powerful choice by Bollaín. She uses the fictional film within the film to create a meta-narrative, constantly reminding the viewer of the cyclical nature of oppression and the enduring legacy of colonialism. The events unfolding on the set mirror the historical realities of Cochabamba, drawing stark parallels between the past and present. The actors, extras, and crew members all become embroiled in the protests, blurring the lines between fiction and reality, and highlighting the uncomfortable truth that history is not just a detached academic exercise but a lived experience with tangible consequences.

Cinematic Techniques: A Symphony of Visual Storytelling

Bollaín employs a range of cinematic techniques to enhance the film's impact and communicate its complex themes. The contrasting visuals of the lush, idyllic landscapes and the harsh realities of poverty and protest create a powerful visual dichotomy. The film's cinematography is stunning, capturing both the beauty of the Bolivian landscape and the grit of the protests. The use of close-ups allows the audience to connect emotionally with the characters and to understand their struggles on an intimate level.

The sound design is equally effective. The ambient sounds of the Bolivian countryside are juxtaposed with the chaotic noises of the protests, creating a visceral experience for the viewer. The music subtly underscores the emotional weight of the scenes, adding depth to the narrative without being overly melodramatic.

The film's editing is crucial in maintaining the tension between the fictional and real-life narratives. The seamless transitions between the film set and the streets of Cochabamba emphasize the interconnectedness of the two stories. The editing technique heightens the sense of urgency and immediacy, drawing the viewer into the unfolding events. The use of slow-motion during moments of heightened emotion further amplifies the impact of these scenes.

The use of long takes, particularly during the protest scenes, allows the viewer to fully immerse themselves in the intensity of the situation. These prolonged shots, devoid of quick cuts, add a sense of realism and immediacy to the depiction of the protests. This technique effectively showcases the sheer scale and brutality of the government's response to the water crisis.

Themes Explored: A Multifaceted Look at Power, History, and Memory

Even the Rain is a film rich in thematic depth. It explores the following crucial issues:

• Colonialism and Neo-colonialism: The film draws direct parallels between the historical conquest of the Americas and the contemporary exploitation of Bolivian resources by multinational corporations. The fictional film within the film acts as a lens through which to examine the enduring legacy of colonialism and the ways in which it manifests itself in the present day.

• Globalization and Inequality: The film highlights the unequal distribution of resources and power in a globalized world. The privatization of water, a basic human right, is presented as a stark example of how globalization can exacerbate existing inequalities and leave vulnerable populations at the mercy of powerful corporations and governments.

• Historical Memory and Trauma: Even the Rain doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of history. It acknowledges the lasting impact of historical trauma on both individuals and communities. The film suggests that confronting the past is essential to creating a more just and equitable future. The film also subtly explores the complexities of memory, showing how different perspectives can shape our understanding of historical events.

• The Ethics of Filmmaking: The film uses the fictional film shoot as a meta-narrative to explore the ethical responsibilities of filmmakers. It questions the power dynamics inherent in the filmmaking process and the potential for filmmakers to inadvertently perpetuate harmful stereotypes or exploit their subjects.

• The Power of Collective Action: The film highlights the power of collective action in challenging oppressive systems. The protests in Cochabamba are depicted as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Bolivian people in the face of adversity. The film underscores the importance of solidarity and collective struggle in achieving social justice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is Even the Rain a true story? No, Even the Rain is not a documentary. However, it is heavily inspired by the real-life Cochabamba Water War, which serves as a pivotal backdrop for the film's fictional narrative. The events of the water war are depicted realistically and used to explore broader themes of colonialism, globalization, and social injustice.

• What is the significance of the title, "Even the Rain"? The title is symbolic. The rain, a seemingly neutral element of nature, becomes intertwined with the suffering and struggles of the Bolivian people. It represents the inescapable nature of history and its consequences, subtly indicating that even seemingly innocuous aspects of life are affected by historical injustices.

• What is the importance of the film within a film? The fictional film, "Columbus," serves as a powerful meta-narrative device. It allows the director to directly confront the themes of colonialism and exploitation by showing the parallels between the past and present. The production of the film provides a framework through which the realities of the Cochabamba Water War can be understood and explored.

• What is the message of Even the Rain? The central message of Even the Rain is a call for awareness and social responsibility. The film urges viewers to confront the complex legacy of colonialism, recognize the ongoing impacts of globalization, and actively participate in creating a more just and equitable world. It highlights the importance of collective action and the need to challenge systemic injustices, emphasizing that history is not just a passive event but an active process that shapes our present and future.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy of Cinematic Impact

Even the Rain is a powerful and moving film that deserves its place among the most important works of contemporary cinema. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on the complexities of history, the enduring impact of colonialism, and the importance of fighting for social justice. Bollaín's masterful storytelling, coupled with her effective use of cinematic techniques, creates a visceral and emotionally resonant experience. The film's layered narrative successfully intertwines fictional and real-life events, compelling viewers to consider the interconnectedness of past and present struggles. Its lasting legacy lies in its ability to spark dialogue and inspire critical thinking about global power dynamics and the ongoing fight for human rights. More than just a film, Even the Rain is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of resistance and the unwavering pursuit of a more just world.