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Where the Tracks End (2023)

Where the Tracks End (2023)

6.4

A disjointed look at worker exploitation and the importance of education that never finds its footing

Movie

Mexico
Spanish
Comedy, Drama, Family
2023

TLDR

The tracks would've been more impactful if they were all in one line.

What it's about

A young boy, Ikal, tries to adjust to a new town as he learns to read and his father tries to find steady work.

The take

Ambitious and sincere, Where the Tracks End is a sweet coming of age centered on a tender community and mutual aid in the face of worker exploitation. Alternating between the young son of a traveling worker adjusting to a new town and an inspector tasked with informing small schools of an initiative that will force their doors closed, the film loses the chance to be impactful with either. This love letter to teaching and the importance of education is admirable as it holds together the community element of the script. Although the impact goes off-track due to its lack of commitment to one solid narrative, the heart behind it (and the children's innocent will to live a better life) shines through every so often.

What stands out

Although the overall sentiment gets lost by the end, the performances feel bright and authentic. The connections between characters provide merit where the script does not. Ikal's caring parents, dedicated teacher, and small friend group never feel over-acted, adding the charm that saves the film.

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