Chichester Cinema at New Park
The Pearl
La Perla
Based upon a novel and screenplay by John Steinbeck, this story of greed and materialism in a Mexican fishing village is made more potent by the shimmering gorgeous black-and-white photography by cinematographer Gabriel Figueroa.
Quino (Pedro Armendariz) is a Mexican diver that discovers a pearl at the bottom of the sea. He and his wife Juana (María Elena Marqués), and their son have just taken possession of a pearl that is worth thousands. Everyday people try to get in on the cash; even Pearl Dealers try to rip them off. When Quino is attacked one day, he kills his attackers in self defence. His brother suggests their only hope is to leave the village. But on their journey to give their son an education they never had, someone may just do anything to prevent it. The film is based on John Steinbeck's novel, and the famous author was the key to getting the film made (and keeping it out of Hollywood), writing the novel with the film in mind after Fernandez said he was interested in directing it.
What makes this tale of men fighting for greed and materialism a memorable film is the striking atmospheric cinematography of Gabriel Figueroa. He makes great use of the beautiful natural locales of La Paz, Mexico, and Wahaca, the culturally rich area of Mexico which is home to many artists/intellectuals including Francesco Toledo whose kites are installed in the 18th century Stairwell in the Surreal Friends exhibition. The story is not meant to be realistic, as everything is done on a grand scale, given mythical stature and importance. (Subtitles)
In the Studio (Limited Seating Capacity) Tickets £5
Mexico · 
USA · 1947 · Emilio Fernandez · 85min
