This is a film I’ve received a number of emails on since we first profiled it, asking if I knew when/whether it would see a proper release in the USA. It also proved to be quite popular whenever we did write about it, including Vanessa’s enthusiastic review of it (here) as well as her interview with the director, Mariana Rondón (here). The good news is that the film will indeed be released theatrically in the USA, courtesy of Cinema Tropical/FiGa Films, starting with a Film Forum (NYC) premiere – a 2 week engagement at that theater, from November 19 – December 12. So New Yorkers interested in seeing the film will have an opportunity to do so, starting in less than a month. As for the rest of the country, I expect that the film will travel. Such is the nature of indie distribution, especially when it comes to *smaller* films like this. You can’t expect a 3000 screen nationwide opening. Patience… But we’ll keep you up to date of the film’s moves around. 

Details of its release below via press release from Cinema Tropical:

Film Forum is pleased to present the US theatrical premiere of Mariana Rondón’s BAD HAIR, beginning Wednesday, November 19.

Writer-director Mariana Rondón grounds her film in the cultural realities of working-class Venezuela – and, by dint of two remarkable performances, finds warmth and humor between mother and son, even as the uncertainties of pre-adolescence threaten to pull them apart. Samuel Lange as the mischievous, incipiently stylish Junior is a wonder to behold: whether arguing with adults, hanging out with his chubby gal-pal, or admiring his newly straightened hair. The rest of the cast exude believability as well as poignancy, emotional depth, and joie de vivre. Winner, Best Film, San Sebastian Film Festival, and winner of more than a dozen directing, acting, and screenwriting awards at festivals throughout the world.

BAD HAIR will have a 2-week engagement, November 19 – December 2, at Film Forum, 209 West Houston Street (West of 6th Avenue), with screenings daily at 12:45, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, and 9:30. A Cinema Tropical/FiGa Films release.

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BAD HAIR (2013, 93 minutes) Written and Directed by Mariana Rondón. Produced by Marité Ugás. Cinematography: Micaela Cajahuaringa. Editor: Marité Ugás. Music: Camilo Froideval. Cast: Samuel Lange (Junior), Samantha Castillo (Marta, his mother), Nelly Ramos (Carmen, his paternal grandmother), Maria Emilia Sulbaran (his friend). Venezuela/Peru/Germany. In Spanish with English subtitles. Released by Cinema Tropical and FiGa Films.

Trailer below: