A lively and surprising portrait of a group of homosexuals, who defend their sexual diversity while preserving their identity as Zapotec Indians in the "queer paradise" of Juchitán, Mexico. MUXES examines transgressive boundary-pushing within an indigenous culture that has historically embraced this "third gender."

In this society, Muxes have traditionally filled the roles of sewing, cooking, preparation of celebrations and roviding lifetime care for their parents. Likewise, the men we meet here are chefs, salon-owners, housekeepers and teachers, in addition to being inveterate fun-lovers and an acknowledged outlet for straight men in a culture that still values virginity in brides. However, all is not perfect in paradise, as director Islas occasionally suggests in a frequently amusing way just how low the glass ceiling of acceptance might be for those who push too hard.

Miami International Film Festival, 2006

$26.95

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