by Rosa Parra

The Huntress (La Cazadora) is directed by Suzanne Andrews Correa and stars Adriana Paz, Teresa Sánchez, Jennifer Trejo, Eme Malafe, and Guillermo Alonso. Luz (Paz) lives in the border city of Juárez, Mexico, where violence against women is perpetrated with impunity, highlighting urgent social issues. Inspired by true events, this film tackles heavy themes that demand attention and reflection from viewers concerned about gender violence and women’s safety.

Adriana Paz delivers a haunting and subtle performance, clearly conveying her character’s trauma, conflict, frustration, and genuine concern for her daughter’s safety, which is also reflected in the film’s direction. The subject matter is infuriating and has long been an issue in Mexico’s society. Feminicide is not only a problem in Mexico but also a widespread issue across Latin America. Ciudad Juarez, a border city with the United States, hosts factories that provide jobs—mostly for women. These women rely on transportation to reach their workplaces, often placing them in vulnerable situations, such as having to ride buses late at night. Witnessing this story unfold was haunting. However, I’m glad these events are rooted in reality, as it shows that women are stepping up and taking action. In Mexico, especially, police often do nothing to find disappeared women and children, forcing mothers to take matters into their own hands.

This film is a slow burn, and I valued the time spent with Luz. I gained insight into her actions; even if I don’t always agree with her ways of handling community issues, I understand her reasons. There are visual and audio distortions used to illustrate Luz’s PTSD from her rape. She exhibits a visceral physical response, such as rising abruptly on a bus after her traumatic experience. The director skillfully employs chaotic, shaky handheld camera shots to portray Luz’s mental disorientation, capturing her fear and the lurking threats she perceives.

Luz encounters Ximena, played powerfully by Teresa Sánchez, a mother leading a group of women seeking justice for the disappeared. Her story is particularly heartbreaking. Ximena isn’t just introduced to guide Luz but also to highlight what many mothers do—searching deserts for bones or bodies because they can’t rely on authorities. The film subtly incorporates spiritual elements, where ghosts of the disappeared appear and are heard. In a poignant scene, Luz finally sees the ghosts, but only after completing a specific task.

I understand Luz’s instinct to do whatever it takes to protect her daughter, especially a 14-year-old who’s vulnerable to men. As a mother of four daughters, I genuinely mean it when I say I will do everything possible to shield them from the dangers out there. Unfortunately, I also have to teach my daughters how to defend themselves—whether carrying pepper spray, knives, or learning martial arts—because it seems men often act without restraint. I feel compelled to equip my daughters to protect themselves, as it seems that many sons aren’t being raised with the same awareness.

Overall, The Huntress (La Cazadora) offers a powerful insight into the dangers present in Ciudad Juarez. Driven by a gripping performance from Adriana Paz, this film prompts viewers to consider whether society is doing enough to ensure women’s safety.

Rating: 9/10