Hummingbirds - A Vibrant Slice of Life

Directed by: Silvia Del Carmen Castaños, Estefanía “Beba” Contreras  

Starring: Silvia Del Carmen Castaños, Estefanía “Beba” Contreras

**Rating:** ★★★★☆

Calling Hummingbirds simply a documentary feels limiting and almost reductive. This debut film from best friends Silvia Del Carmen Castaños and Estefanía “Beba” Contreras transcends traditional documentary boundaries, offering a multifaceted self-portrait that is as much a story of friendship as it is a call to activism, a summer comedy, and a poignant immigrant narrative.

A Unique Approach to Storytelling

Filmed in the summer of 2019, Hummingbirds eschews a traditional narrative structure, inviting viewers to follow Silvia and Beba through their daily lives in Laredo, TX. This border town backdrop adds layers to their experiences as Mexican immigrants facing uncertain futures. The film’s lack of a clear plot allows for organic, heartfelt moments that convey the raw realities of their lives. 

The Power of Friendship and Activism

At its core, Hummingbirds is a celebration of Silvia and Beba's friendship. Their camaraderie shines through in every scene, whether they are singing, dancing, or engaging in devilish antics. The film captures their individual talents and activism, showing how they navigate the pressures of adulthood while advocating for their community. 

Silvia, a brilliant writer and poet, uses their eloquence to support Planned Parenthood, while Beba showcases her musical talents in joyous tunes that serve as the film’s soundtrack. These talents are highlighted without heavy-handed messaging, making their activism feel authentic and deeply personal.

A Fun and Relatable Experience

Despite the serious undertones, Hummingbirds is filled with fun, lighthearted moments that make viewers feel like part of Silvia and Beba’s inner circle. Whether they’re eating street food, getting tattoos, or wearing oversized sunglasses at a Bingo match, their youthful exuberance is infectious. A night of bowling to celebrate a friend’s birthday offers a glimpse of their ability to set aside adult problems and fully enjoy their youth.

Authenticity and Honesty

Hummingbirds stands out for its authenticity and honesty. By turning the camera on themselves, Silvia and Beba provide a unique cinematic experience that offers transparency about their lives and struggles. Their story, told in their own voices, challenges the often negative portrayal of immigrants in the media, showing that they experience life’s ups and downs just like anyone else.

Conclusion

Hummingbirds is a vibrant, heartfelt film that defies easy categorization. Silvia Del Carmen Castaños and Estefanía “Beba” Contreras have created a compelling and entertaining slice of life that celebrates friendship, highlights activism, and humanizes the immigrant experience. This quiet gem is a must-watch for its honesty, relatability, and the sheer joy it brings to the screen.

Verdict: A beautiful, multifaceted portrait of friendship and activism that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening.