Day of the Dead in Mexico is not just a parade celebration. It’s a season where we actually have mixed emotions because we miss the ones who left us.

Yes, we are a country that celebrates the Death, but we’re not immune to it. We feel it and sometimes we fear it too.

That’s why this year, a single question gave us all peace:

“Who’s waiting for you?” on the other side?

Rogelio

According to the Aztecs, Xoloitzcuintles, were the chosen ones to guide the souls to rest in peace on the other side: The Mictlán.

Rogelio is how one of my best friends and Art Director of this project tells me. Why? Ask him! But for me it surely was a great name for the main character of our film.

Jorge

This character embodies the Mexican spirit: big heart, great sense of humor, hard work, and a deep sense of community. Making him a tendero (neighborhood shopkeeper) felt natural because in Mexico, the corner store is a huge part of everyday life.

Jorge also carries the name and spirit of Jorge Alaniz, my Tío Abuelo.

This film is animated

Because only animation has the power to create new worlds, and of course, I love Studio Ghibli. Jess, my leader and CCO of this project, too. At the beginning she told me:

"The Mictlán needs to feel like Totoro, Ro”.