Under the Same Moon: User Reviews

Mothers, children, "coyotes", "la migra": All under the same moon
By Esperanza from River North, May 2, 2008

I recommend this movie to all Americans, immigrants and native borns alike, because it offers:
A helpful reflection on the situation of parents illegally entering the US in order to better provide for family in their home country. The mother in this movie doesn't seem to be in desparate straits to leave Mexico in order to support her son, but on the other hand, the US does seem to promise more financial opportunities than Mexico.
Inclusion of some not-so-altruistic motives of "coyotes" helping people cross the border and the dangerous conditions of border crossings, especially for women and children crossing without a parent or spouse. This is the darker side of the story.
Hope about good people and the potential for inner transformation and growth. The mother, who tries hard to do what she thinks is best for her son, realizes that what she wants most is to be with her son, even if that means returning to Mexico. At least in her particular situation, what good is the money she sends back if she cannot raise him? She is a woman of integrity and is honest with herself. The other transformation occurs with the boy's reluctant migrant "guardian". He adds a touch of realism about human nature and humor arising from unpredictable circumstances. But his final scene is most telling.
Although the movie title has another origin (see the movie to find out), the coexistence of all these types of people and the Spanish title of the movie reminded me of lyrics from a Gloria Estefan song: "... despertamos al mismo sol, nos alumbra la misma luna, necesitamos sentir amor." (Loosely: "We wake up to the same sun, the same moon shines on us, we need to feel love.")
When you watch the movie, be sure to listen to or read subtitles for music lyrics and background radio programming.

Beautiful story
By chato from alied, April 1, 2008

This is a beautiful story of a mother and son's love for one another. We mother's understand that we will do everything possible for your children, even if that means leaving them in our native country to find a better life in the United States of America. I know that for some critics that are ingnorant this story is too soft and not so good, because it doesn't involved in murder and evil. All of us that came to this country know that we come here to find a better life for our loved ones and we are all immigrants. Eventhough, you might have been born in United States of America, your ancestors were immigrants. Remember this country was made from immigrants dating back when Christopher Columbus first invaded the country that belonged to the native indians. Please don't forget that this is the land of freedom and opportunity or go back to school and learn the story of our Lady Liberty The Statue of Liberty. Remember this "One nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for ALL" We should appreciate and thank the people of Mexico for wanting a better future for their families and for them working the types of jobs no one else wants to do!!!!!!

Not political
By debidesigns from metro, March 24, 2008

Why do you negative naysayers always want to make this a major political statement? You need to know the producers to see that this is just a gentle tale, one all too familiar to the underclass protrayed. Hollywood did NOT produce this film, and the talented director was only trying to create a point of view through creative storytelling. I think she did a terrific job, with dramatic flair, touching emotion, humor and music! How refreshing to see a family film without expletives, explosions, overt sex nor a tiresome agenda. If you want a more edgy niche film, do better research. This is a MUST SEE FAMILY movie!