Machuca: Socialism vs. Militarism in South America

In the film Machuca: Socialism vs. Militarism we are able to view a profound friendship between the two boys Pedro and Gonzalo. From the beginning of the film it is evident that they will become friends. At first Pedro is skeptical of the relationship appearing non-trusting but he is won over by Gonzalo when Gonzalo sticks up for him when the bullies start attacking the boys. Unfortunately they both become targets of the bullies and are repeatedly picked on but seen to take it in stride. The boys develop a special bond where they have each others backs during several incidences at school. Each boy seems to be very curious about the others lifestyles. I found the interactions when visiting each others families to be most interesting. Both boys showed great bravery when going to the others home. It was intriguing to me that both mothers were tolerant of the friendship but the other family members were not. Gonzalo had to experience much more ridicule than Pedro as he was constantly called a snob and rich boy even strawberry face,by a neighbor. I was impressed by the way the boys were very well aware of the differences between their social classes but did not allow that to stop them from being friends. The distinction between rich vs. poor portrayed in the film was very obvious and pronounced. As the country of Chile is in severe upheaval the whole city of Santiago seems to be participating in the demonstrations. I found it interesting how whole families were involved as they waved flags and petitioned either in support or opposition of the government. Towards the end of the film it was sad to see how the people of the city turned against each other by showing extreme prejudices against one another depending on their social class. Another example of class destinction was when the two mothers were expressing their opinions during the school meeting. As Gonzalos mother poses the question of "Why would you want to mix apples and pears?" voicing her oppostion to the new boys coming to the school. Pedro's mother then voices concern that she is gravely dissapointed that things are not different for her family in Santiago as they are still facing prejudices because they are poor. I summarize that the main message of the film is to portray how as a people we can try to overcome hate and prejudices for people who don't think and act as we do, but unfortunately for the most part these feelings can be so ingrained in our beings that it can seem impossible to overcome. This was displayed at the violent protest where Gonzolas mother became so angry and hateful towards Silvana a total stranger to her but one who reperesented a less important class in her eyes. I found the film to be moving and intriguing as we explored the differences in social classes during this time period of Chili's history.