Watch Escaramuza: Riding from the Heart

Escaramuza: Riding from the Heart is a 2012 documentary film directed by Robin Rosenthal that tells the inspiring story of a group of Mexican American women, who participating in a traditional sport, the escaramuza. The film explores the passion, dedication, and determination of these women, both individually and as a team, as they compete in a male-dominated sport.

The escaramuza is a traditional Mexican sport that involves riding horses while performing intricate choreographed routines to traditional Mexican music. The sport originated in the 19th century and was traditionally reserved for men, but in recent decades, women have been participating in the sport and forming their own teams.

The film follows the journey of a group of women from California, who train and compete under the leadership of Maribel Gutierrez. Maribel is a veteran escaramuza rider, who is also a mother and a businesswoman. Through Maribel's leadership, the team of riders learns not only the physical skills required to perform the sport but also the values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience that are essential to succeed in any challenging endeavor.

The documentary shows intimate and touching portraits of the individual members of the team, including Sandy Torres, the team captain, and youngest member of the group. Sandy's story is particularly poignant, as she struggles to balance her passion for the sport with the demands of her family, who do not understand or support her dreams.

The film also explores the cultural significance of the escaramuza and the challenges that women face in a society that often marginalizes and dismisses their contributions. The team members, who come from diverse backgrounds, share their personal experiences of discrimination and prejudice and how their participation in the escaramuza has given them a sense of empowerment and belonging.

Through stunning footage of the riders in action, the viewer is transported to the colorful and vibrant world of the escaramuza. The documentary captures the athleticism and beauty of the sport and the deep connection between the riders and their horses. The music and costumes add to the spectacle, making the film a feast for the senses.

Overall, Escaramuza: Riding from the Heart is an uplifting and inspiring documentary that celebrates the resilience and courage of women who break barriers and follow their dreams. The film shows how sports can be a powerful platform for social change and how individual achievements can have a ripple effect in the larger society. Above all, the film is a testimony to the human spirit and the power of community to uplift and transform lives.