Ellas Vinieron de Las Nubes / They Came From the Clouds

“Ellas Vinieron de Las Nubes” follows José David, Fanni, and Marlen, three young Afro-Mexicans in the mythic landscapes of Oaxaca, seeking to rediscover their ancestral African heritage. In Mexico, Blackness is shamed, with lighter skin being preferred. Through a mesmerizing blend of documentary, animation, and fiction, the film opens portals to alternate realities, immersing viewers in the personal narratives, memories, and dreams of these resilient individuals. José David, a quiet cumbia singer, is haunted by the painful legacy of his brother’s mysterious departure, while Fanni, a demure college student, is ensnared by the lingering shadow of her mother’s absence, when she embarked for the United States at the tender age of two. Marlen, a radiant Afro-Mexican model, seeks answers about her own identity and familial history. As they delve deeper into the depths of their African roots, they confront harsh realities and the echoes of migration, which linger like ghosts in their community. Hybrid in nature, the project aspires to expand the cinematic nonfiction form. The film is notable for being supported by the Black Experience on Xfinity Grant Program by Comcast (NBCUniversal), which includes potential distribution on streaming platforms once the film is complete.