The Global Search for Education: Director Carlos H. Tejeda Discusses the Power of Personal Courage.
This month, audiences can screen Revolucionarios (Revolutionaries) on the Planet Classroom Network. This film is curated for the Planet Classroom Network by KIDS FIRST! Film Festival.
Revolucionarios (Revolutionaries) is a heartwarming short film by Director Carlos H. Tejeda. In this story we follow 8-year-old Pachito on his journey to school, dressed as a 19th-century Mexican revolutionary. The story unfolds around a chance encounter that changes his perspective, teaching him a timeless lesson about courage and embracing individuality. A touching story for audiences of all ages.
The Global Search for Education is pleased to welcome Director Carlos H. Tejeda.
Carlos, why did you choose 19th-century revolutionaries as the subject of your film? How did you come up with the concept?
The Mexican revolution is one of the few festivities in which students are required to dress up, besides spring and Dia de los Muertos in Mexico. This short film is about courage and being brave, which I believe mirrors very well with what a revolution represents.
This film teaches a good lesson in not letting other people’s opinions influence you. Can you share your thoughts on the importance of addressing this theme, especially for younger audiences?
I speak from personal experience that I regret the ideas I had that I didn’t execute because of fear of what others think. Especially when you are younger and are in the process of creating your own personality, it is absolutely important to learn to listen to yourself. Do what you believe is right, even if others say otherwise.
You tell a meaningful story within a short runtime. Can you elaborate on the creative challenges and strategies you used to convey the message effectively in this format?
Telling a short story is always a challenge since you have to keep in mind you only have a few minutes to get your idea across. You have to ask yourself: What is the heart of the story? How am I moving my story forward in every beat?
Is this short film based on any past experiences of yours or someone you know, and what do you most hope audiences will take away?
My elementary years were very difficult. You are trying to blend in and socialize with colleagues that come from different frames of reference, and as a kid, you are still figuring out how to do that correctly. I remember the idea of standing out visually in a classroom was terrifying when I was little. This short film is a reminder that you should never underestimate the personal challenges anyone is going through. What could be a small issue for you could be a huge problem for someone else.
Thank you, Carlos!
C.M. Rubin with Carlos H. Tejeda
Don’t miss Revolucionarios (Revolutionaries) now streaming on the Planet Classroom Network. This film is curated by KIDS FIRST! Film Festival for the Planet Classroom Network.