GOING VARSITY IN MARIACHI Documentary

Screenings to be followed by a conversation with directors Alejandra Vasquez and Sam Osborn.

In this charming documentary set in the South Texas borderlands, a passionate group of student musicians of varying experience levels come together to form Edinburg North High School’s mariachi team, steered by the unflappable Coach Abel Acuña. As the award-winning team prepares to compete against their rivals at Texas’ most important high school competition, students clash and Coach Acuña struggles to get his team to reach their highest potential. Filmmakers Alejandra Vasquez and Sam Osborn earnestly observe their young, spirited subjects through a tender lens as they capture the vibrant world of competitive mariachi culture. Filled with lighthearted moments and a nail-biting final act, GOING VARSITY IN MARIACHI is a joy to behold both visually and sonically. Winner of the Jonathan Oppenheim Editing Award at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. –Julia Kipnis