Ánimas Trujano (film)

Ánimas Trujano is a 1962 Mexican drama film directed by Ismael Rodríguez, starring Toshiro Mifune in the title role. While Mifune was Japanese, he played an indigenous Mexican peasant in the film.

The film tells the story of Ánimas Trujano, an irresponsible and selfish Indian peasant in a small Oaxacan village, who is obsessed with becoming the mayordomo (steward) for the annual village fiesta. This position is highly coveted as it brings prestige and honor, despite the significant financial burden it places on the mayordomo.

Ánimas, driven by his ego and desire for recognition, squanders his family's money and resources on gambling and drinking in his relentless pursuit of the mayordomía. He makes a series of questionable and morally reprehensible decisions, ultimately alienating his wife Juana and putting his family in dire straits.

The film explores themes of social hierarchy, ambition, corruption, family relationships, and the clash between tradition and personal desires. It offers a critical portrayal of Mexican society, highlighting the prevalence of machismo and the exploitation of the poor.

Ánimas Trujano was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 34th Academy Awards. It is considered a classic of Mexican cinema, noted for its strong performances, its depiction of Oaxacan culture, and its unflinching examination of social issues. Despite the casting of a Japanese actor in a Mexican role, the film is regarded for its powerful story and cultural significance.