Watch A 3 Minute Hug

A 3 Minute Hug is a touching and heartwarming documentary that explores the emotional reunions of families and friends separated by the United States-Mexico border. Directed by Everardo González, the film was released on Netflix in 2019. The film takes place on both sides of the border, in El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua. On a particular day, people from both sides gather to participate in an event called "Hugs Not Walls." The event provides a rare opportunity for families separated by the border to reunite briefly, embrace, and share their stories with each other.

The concept of the event is powerful, but the personal stories of those who participate truly bring the film to life. A 3 Minute Hug interweaves various narratives, unfolding the emotional journeys of the people who gather at the border. Some stories are heartbreaking, while others are joyful, but all show the human impact of the border's physical barrier.

One of the most affecting stories in the film follows a woman named Lety, who is excitedly preparing to reunite with her children who live in Mexico. She hasn't seen them in twelve years, and she tearfully shares her journey with the camera. Another moving story involves a man who used to work in the US but was deported and now lives in Mexico, where he has not seen his family in nine years.

The film also highlights the political implications of the border barrier. Some scenes show the reactions of border patrol agents to the event, which demonstrate the complicated and often problematic nature of border control. The use of drones, the installation of cameras, and the monitoring of the event are shown, making the audience aware of the politics that inform the personal stories.

Despite the heavy subject matter, A 3 Minute Hug also celebrates the resilience and courage of those who participate. While the embrace is fleeting - lasting only three minutes - the hugs they share are deeply emotional and powerful. The event provides the opportunity for people to step outside the boundaries imposed by the border and reconnect with their loved ones.

The film's cinematography is beautifully done, capturing the landscape on both sides of the border. The director also does an incredible job of balancing the personal narratives with larger political issues at play. The result is a film that is immersive, emotional, and thought-provoking.

A 3 Minute Hug is a poignant reminder of the power of human connection in the face of adversity. The film serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of families separated by the border, as well as an indictment of the political forces that seek to divide them.

A 3 Minute Hug is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.