Even the Rain (Tambien la Lluvia) 2011

Mexican filmmaker Sebastián and his Spanish executive producer Costa arrive in the heart of Cochabamba, Bolivia, joined by their dedicated cast and crew, to create a historical film about Christopher Columbus’s daring journey to the New World. The film will explore the imposition of Spanish authority over the indigenous people of Hispaniola, culminating in the courageous rebellion led by Hatuey. With a keen awareness of his budget constraints, Costa opts to shoot in Bolivia, the poorest country in South America, leading to an overwhelming turnout of hundreds of eager Bolivian locals responding to open casting calls.

Sebastián chooses Daniel, a spirited local, to portray the rebellious Taíno chief, Hatuey. Alongside him, Daniel’s daughter Belén also secures a significant role, marking the beginning of their journey in the film. During casting, tensions arise when directors begin to turn people away. In a passionate outburst, Daniel demands that every aspiring actor deserves a fair chance to audition, echoing the promise made in the casting pamphlet. Despite Costa’s reservations about hiring him, Sebastián is captivated by Daniel’s fervor, unaware of his involvement in a local protest against the controversial water privatization plan.

As filming progresses, the atmosphere turns tense when Anton, the actor portraying Columbus, grapples with alcoholism. Costa’s unease grows as he discovers Daniel’s revolutionary activities. During shooting, Costa makes derogatory remarks about the locals in English, oblivious to the fact that Daniel can understand him. This revelation causes Daniel to become increasingly aware of the exploitation his people are facing, leading to a transformation in Costa’s perspective as he begins to feel guilt for his prior indifference.

As the shoot nears completion, the indigenous people’s frustration boils over, prompting them to rise up for their right to water. Daniel, defying pleas to tone down his activism for a higher pay, champions the protests, drawing Costa’s ire when he witnesses Daniel being brutally beaten by the police amidst the riots. In a desperate attempt to quiet Daniel, Costa offers him a substantial bribe, which Daniel accepts, but he chooses to assist the demonstrators instead, ultimately leading to his imprisonment.

Sebastián wrestles with his conscience, pondering whether the film can be finished, yet finds solace in Costa’s determination to secure Daniel’s temporary release by bribing the police to film a critical scene depicting the execution of Hatuey. After completing this harrowing scene, the police arrive to detain Daniel once more, but in a surprising turn, the extras come to his aid, orchestrating his escape.

That evening, actors Juan and Alberto watch the distressing news unfolding in Cochabamba, their concern prompting them to demand to leave the project. In a plea, Sebastián implores them to stay, and they reluctantly agree. The following day, as preparations for the next filming day ensue, Costa is approached by Daniel’s wife, Teresa. Desperate for help, she seeks Costa’s assistance in locating Belén, who has gone missing amidst the protests and is critically injured. Initially hesitant, Costa is eventually swayed by Teresa’s relentless appeals, even as Sebastián passionately protests against it.

Navigating the devastated streets of Cochabamba, Costa is confronted with the stark reality of their situation. After an arduous journey, they manage to find Belén. While her life is saved, her leg sustains severe injuries that may hinder her future mobility. Meanwhile, a military blockade halts the rest of the crew, leading all but Anton to abandon Sebastián to return home. Shortly after, the revolution leads to the ejection of the multinational water company, yet the city lies in ruins from the conflict. Expressing a glimmer of hope for the film’s completion, Costa receives a heartfelt gift from Daniel in the form of a vial of Bolivian water, signifying gratitude for saving his daughter.