Melissa Fisher’s Buscando Alma is a deeply evocative short film that skillfully explores themes of identity, mental health, and familial bonds through the lens of magical realism. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Miami, the film tells the story of Cristina, a transgender Honduran-American woman, who is grappling with the emotional scars of being separated from her mother, Alma, when she was a small child. This separation left both mother and daughter with deeply rooted trauma, and the story unfolds as Cristina prepares for the chance to reunite with Alma after twenty years of estrangement.

At the heart of Buscando Alma is Cristina’s internal conflict. Since their separation, Cristina has affirmed her true female identity, and as she approaches this long-awaited reunion, she faces a pivotal question: If she presents herself as the woman she truly is, will her mother embrace her? This emotional tension drives the narrative, bringing an intense sense of vulnerability to Cristina’s journey as she navigates not only her cultural heritage but also the profound impact of being estranged from her family while living authentically.

Carolina Gutierrez delivers a powerful performance as Cristina, imbuing the character with both strength and fragility as she contemplates this life-changing moment. Fisher’s direction is visually stunning, using Miami’s vibrant, tropical setting to contrast the weight of Cristina’s emotional turmoil. Dreamlike sequences, filled with magical realism, depict Cristina’s introspective moments and the influence of her cultural roots, offering the audience a window into her psyche as she prepares for this reunion.

The film’s exploration of identity, particularly the intersection of gender, cultural background, and familial expectations, makes Buscando Alma a powerful and layered narrative. The unresolved trauma from Cristina’s childhood separation from Alma, paired with the complexities of her transgender identity, adds emotional weight to her journey of self-discovery and healing. Fisher delves deeply into the mother-daughter relationship, touching on intergenerational trauma, the longing for acceptance, and the hope for reconciliation.

Buscando Alma stands out not only for its poignant storytelling but also for its delicate handling of these complex issues. The film’s use of magical realism serves as a poetic vehicle for Cristina’s exploration of her past, while the cultural elements of her Honduran heritage add depth to the narrative. The title itself, meaning “searching for soul,” mirrors Cristina’s quest to reconnect with both her mother and her true self.

This short has garnered attention at several prestigious film festivals, including Out on Film and Miami Film Festival. Buscando Alma is an emotionally resonant and visually striking exploration of identity, belonging, and the hope for acceptance. Melissa Fisher’s delicate balance of raw emotion and magical realism results in a film that is as thought-provoking as it is deeply moving.

Sophie Muller

Rating: 5/5