Immigrant Family Struggles in Little Haiti

In her feature debut, "Mountains," director Monica Sorelle delves into the complexities of an immigrant family living in Miami's Little Haiti neighborhood. The film opens with the demolition of a house, symbolizing the broader themes of displacement and gentrification that permeate the narrative. The central character, Xavier (Atibon Nazaire), works in demolition, a job he performs with little complaint, though he occasionally defends his co-workers. His ambivalence towards the impact of his work on the community sets the stage for the family's struggles. Xavier and his wife, Esperance (Sheila Anozier), face the challenge of affording a new home while navigating their immigrant experience. Esperance, a school crossing guard and part-time dressmaker, shares in the family's aspirations, but financial constraints loom large. Their son, Junior (Chris Renois), adds another layer to the family's dynamic as a college dropout aspiring to be a standup comedian. He grapples with how much of his Haitian upbringing to incorporate into his comedic identity, reflecting the generational tensions within immigrant families. "Mountains" captures the fluidity of language, with characters seamlessly transitioning between English and Haitian Creole, highlighting their cultural duality. While the film's understated approach may not leave a lasting impression, it poignantly portrays the immigrant experience and the quest for belonging in a rapidly changing environment. The film runs for 1 hour and 35 minutes, offering a thoughtful exploration of identity and home.