Grieving Landscapes Film Series – Part 1 – Y Tu Mamá También

How do directors use landscapes to interpret feelings of grief? What can cinematic landscapes teach us about grief? The Grieving Landscapes film series is a student-organized event showcasing a trilogy of films at venues across Williamstown. The three films—Y Tu Mamá También (2001), This is Not a Burial, It’s a Resurrection (2019), and The Boy and the Heron (2023) —all, in their distinct fashion, pair intense feelings of grief with vivid depictions of landscape.

The first film of the series, Y Tu Mamá También by Alfonso Cuarón, will show at Paresky Auditorium on Wednesday April 30th at 7:30 pm. This showing will be in conjunction with a course on Mexican Cinema (ENGL/COMP155), being offered in Fall 2025. Arrive early for pizza and a short introduction.

The second film of the series, This is Not a Burial, It’s a Resurrection by Lemohang Jeremiah, Mosese, will show at Images Cinema on Saturday May 3rd at 7:30 pm. Following the film, there will be a roundtable panel discussion, featuring associate curator of programs at WCMA Roz Crews, MCLA Professor of English Victoria Papa, and Williams Professor of History Benjamin Twagira. Popcorn will be provided.

The third film of the series, The Boy and the Heron by Hayao Miyazaki, will take place outdoors at The Clark Reflecting Pool Lawn (see map here) on Thursday May 8th at 7:30 pm. Hot chocolate will be provided.

More Information