Estrellas de La Línea / The Railroad All Stars (2006)
Direction and screenplay: Chema Rodríguez
Directed by Chema Rodríguez, Estrellas de La Línea / The Railroad All Stars traces the lives of a plucky group of prostitutes who live in dismal conditions near a railroad in Guatemala City. Determined to bring some dignity to their lives — and to get publicity for their cause — they form a soccer team, "Estrellas de la Línea."
As a result of the girls' sexy jokes, the film's dialogue milks humor out of the situation while news commentators indulge these unlikely soccer players with amused encouragement.
It's easy to sympathize with the team members who express their frustrations about their situation. It's equally easy to admire the dedication of girls who study or work during the day, even while working as prostitutes at night or whenever they can. Genuine tears provide evidence that the girls do not like what they do, but abuse, police corruption, and social prejudice deny them the opportunity to improve their lives.
The Railroad All Stars heightens the contrast between their poverty-stricken homes and exotic locations they have always dreamed of visiting. Such scenes are supported with appropriately varied musical background (by Paulo Alvarado and Michel Peraza) — some of the best moments evoking the jaunty humor of the context.
The Railroad All Stars is in Spanish with English subtitles. Although the subtitles could have been more clearly outlined and timed more appropriately, Chema Rodríguez tackles the subject with such appealing humor and insight that his film is well worth watching.
The Railroad All Stars was featured in the Human Rights Watch International Film Festival held in London at the end of March.
© Rosemary Westwell
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Is Railroad All-Stars available anywhere in French or with French subtitles?