By: Adam Bekhet
The Crimes of Padre Amaro, directed by Carlos Carrea shows the struggle between discipline and greed that priests face. It takes place in Mexico in the fictional town of Los Reyes.
Father Amaro is a newly ordained priest that has just recently arrived to Los Reyes. As we meet more of the main cast, it is clear to see the deep rooted corruption that lies not only in the church, but in the whole town.
The main priest in the area, Father Benito is building a hospital to serve the community. While the other priest in town, Father Natalio is facing backlash for his links to a left wing group. An affair by Father Benito in the past led to his mistress having a child named Amelia. At this point in time in the film Amelia was sixteen years old and working teaching religious text. She was mulling over marrying a young journalist named Ruben. Ruben and Amelia didn’t see eye to eye in the sense that Ruben was an atheist. It was well known that Ruben’s father was atheist and he was disliked for his strong opinions. Amelia was a devout Catholic which obviously created a disconnect between the two.
Amaro and Amelia quickly become charmed by one and other behind the back of Ruben. The newspaper that Ruben is employed by is given information that the hospital that is being built by Father Benito is actually a vessel for money laundering. Amaro and the church write a denial, which leads to Ruben getting fired. Following this, Amelia breaks up with Ruben harshly. Ruben has his house damaged by Catholics shortly after. After seeing Amaro in public, he assaults him leading to his arrest. Amaro does not press charges.
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