elpais.com
Coyotl: Bestia vs Narco": Drug War and Indigenous Mythology in Rural Mexico
Coyotl: Bestia vs Narco," a Mexican series on Max, depicts two drug cartels battling for control of La Moneda, a small northern Mexican town, with the fantastical addition of a young man who transforms into a nahual (man-beast) to fight corruption and injustice.
- How does the series utilize the nahual mythology, and what symbolic significance does this element hold within the narrative?
- The series uses the nahual myth, linked to hallucinogenic mushroom use as described by Antonin Artaud, to represent Lupe's transformation and mission to defend La Moneda's people. This fantastical element contrasts with the realistic depiction of drug cartel violence and corrupt politicians, highlighting the injustices faced by rural Mexican communities. The narrative seamlessly blends these elements.
- What are the core themes explored in "Coyotl: Bestia vs Narco," and how do they reflect the broader challenges faced by rural communities in Mexico?
- Coyotl: Bestia vs Narco" is a Mexican series blending drug violence with indigenous mythology, set in the town of La Moneda where two drug cartels fight for control. The realistic portrayal depicts murders, violence, and arms trafficking, reflecting the harsh lives of the inhabitants. A fantastical element is introduced when a young man, Lupe, becomes a nahual—a mythical man-beast—after a shamanistic ritual.
- What are the potential long-term impacts of portraying drug cartel violence intertwined with indigenous mythology, considering its audience and the cultural context?
- The show's blend of realism and fantasy offers a potent commentary on the socio-political realities of rural Mexico, suggesting that mythical figures, like the nahual, can be interpreted as symbolic representations of resistance against corruption and violence. The series' success lies in its ability to create a complex plot that's both simple and functional, avoiding excessive special effects while still effectively conveying social injustices.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The review frames the series' fantastical elements as secondary to its portrayal of realistic violence and social injustice. This prioritization subtly suggests that the mythical elements are a mere addition rather than integral to the narrative's overall meaning or impact. The opening quote, while witty, sets a tone that downplays the fantastical aspects.
Language Bias
The review uses hyperbolic language such as "sumerge" and phrases like "caldo de cultivo" (breeding ground), which are evocative but might not be entirely neutral. While adding to the tone, they lack the objectivity expected in a critical analysis. The comparison to political campaigns is subjective and adds a layer of opinion rather than analysis.
Bias by Omission
The review focuses heavily on the plot and fantastical elements of the series, neglecting to mention aspects such as acting quality, cinematography, soundtrack, or specific character development. The lack of critical analysis beyond the plot summary limits a comprehensive understanding of the series' overall quality and artistic merit. While brevity might be a factor, the omission of these crucial aspects hinders a complete evaluation.
False Dichotomy
The review sets up a false dichotomy between viewers seeking "verisimilitude" and those who enjoy fantasy elements. It suggests that appreciating the blend of realism and fantasy is somehow contradictory, neglecting the possibility of viewers enjoying both aspects simultaneously or finding value in the series' unique approach.
Sustainable Development Goals
The series addresses the issue of social injustice and corruption in rural Mexican communities, highlighting the disproportionate impact on marginalized populations. The fight against corrupt politicians and drug cartels represents a symbolic struggle against the systemic inequalities that perpetuate poverty and violence.