Shooting has a double meaning in shocking film about dangers to journalists in Mexico

Note: This film includes graphic content that may disturb some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised. A sobering film from Artículo 19, the nonprofit dedicated to protecting freedom of expression and information, depicts the violence and persecution experienced by journalists in Mexico in a haunting juxtaposition of different shooting tools—a camera and a gun. “The Shooting,” created by Grey México and Oriental Films, depicts the harsh reality faced by journalists south of the border, who are often shot at as they try to capture the truth. The short film, directed by Yupi Segura and Charlie Gutiérrez, offers a graphic depiction of a face-off between two sides: on one, members of organized crime fire their weapons to instill fear and silence journalists; on the other, journalists shoot photos of them with their cameras. The four-minute film comes as Mexico is ranked as one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists, with more than 200 journalists having disappeared or been murdered since 2000. Meanwhile, according to Artículo 19, in Mexico, 98% of crimes against journalists go unpunished. The campaign aims to raise awareness and pressure authorities to protect the journalists who risk their lives to reveal the truth. “This piece seeks to highlight just how dangerous it is to be a journalist in Mexico, a profession that is essential to the world because today, more than ever, we need freedom of expression,” said Alexis Ospina, chief creative officer at Grey México in a statement. As part of the campaign, the organization is inviting the public to defend the free press and support those who expose the truth with their stories. The campaign launched on March 24 in time for International Day for the Right to the Truth. “The extreme levels of violence against the press make Mexico one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists,” said Leopoldo Maldonado, regional director of the Article 19 office for Mexico and Central America. “We cannot normalize this because it restricts our right to know.” More Creativity coverage from Ad Age: Sign up for our daily Creativity newsletter to see the best stories of the day.

Shooting has a double meaning in shocking film about dangers to journalists in Mexico

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