The lyrical documentary essay The In Between, marking the debut feature by director Robie Flores, will have its world premiere in the Documentary Feature competition at the 2024 edition of the SXSW Film Festival, taking place March 8-16 in Austin, Texas.
Following the death of her brother, filmmaker Flores returns to her hometown Eagle Pass on the Texas-Mexico border, yearning to turn back time. Immersed in the unruly experiences of adolescence—quinceañeras, Selena, Rio Grande river excursions, teen makeovers, and beyond—she rediscovers the intricacies of the home her brother adored and she once overlooked. What emerges is a playful dance between a personal and collective coming-of-age portrait of borderland youth and Robie herself as she reclaims joy in the aftermath of grief.
Through her own personal and family journey, director Flores delicately unveils a nuanced and unexpected portrayal of the US/Mexico border, steering clear of sensationalist media coverage of border issues. Going beyond the headlines, Flores’ intimate exploration offers a humanizing perspective that captures the vibrancy of a thriving bi-cultural and bi-national community, celebrating the resilience and spirit of its residents.
By capturing the essence of life on the border with sensitivity and from within, Flores invites audiences to connect with the stories and experiences of those living in this dynamic region. With its poignant portrayal of loss, resilience, and hope, The In Between stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge divides and foster understanding in an increasingly complex world, while marking an auspicious cinematic debut for Flores.
