Many people do not know what it is like to lose home at the risk of never finding it again. They have no idea what it is like to have your life split between two lands and become the bridge between two countries. That is why I see culture as an extension of our lives that shapes who we are and how we relate to the world. It teaches us our first language, and when we emigrate, it leaves us with an accent that makes our mouth carry two worlds.
I find myself overwhelmed by nostalgia, wondering how my life might have unfolded if I had never left my country or taken that flight six years ago. I had believed that all these questions and the emptiness in my chest would fade with time. However, after watching the Netflix film “Simón,” I realize they have simply remained quiet within me.
“Simón” is a compelling drama directed by Venezuelan filmmaker Diego Vicentini. It dives deep into the complexities of identity, the impact of past decisions and the overwhelming feeling of guilt that many immigrants carry on their backs after leaving their decaying countries and giving up the fight.
The movie powerfully portrays the story of Simón, a young college student who, after being arrested and tortured by government officials for participating in massive protests, flees the country and seeks asylum in Miami. There, he must make a decision regarding whether to stay in the city or return to Venezuela.
This plot symbolizes the harsh reality faced by many Venezuelans during the series of violent riots of 2017, where hundreds of college students—many the same age as those at the University of Houston—were injured or even killed simply for fighting for freedom.
The film establishes a dark tone through numerous flashbacks depicting the humanitarian crisis—uncontrolled violence, hyperinflation, gang warfare, soaring crime rates and severe shortages of food, medicine and essential services—that forced him and 7.7 million other Venezuelans to leave their country.
“Simón” also masterfully portrays the ugly face of politics under a tyrannical regime that lies, steals and commits violent crimes against its citizens. Meanwhile, the world watches silently from a distance and the nation’s youth risk their lives on the streets, begging for their compatriots’ help.
The movie traverses through time, depicting scenes of Simón and his best friend being tortured in jail by government officials. It also shows his present life in Miami, where immigration authorities inform him that once he is granted asylum, he will not be able to return to his country.
Simón struggles with both trauma and guilt, ultimately facing a pivotal decision: whether to stay in Miami and start a new life or return home to confront tyranny. Unfortunately, this is a decision that many immigrants have to take.
Towards the end of the movie, we see a transformed Simón who, after coming to terms with his past decisions and embracing the possibilities of a better future, decides to permanently move to the U.S.
Ultimately, just like Simón, we all face challenging situations in our lives that require us to make heartbreaking decisions. For that reason, I believe this movie can resonate not only with the vast majority of immigrants who now find themselves far from home but also with anyone who aspires to make a difference in their community.
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