X500

In X500 three young migrants struggle to adapt to their new surroundings. Maria arrives in Canada from Manila to live with her grandmother after the death of her mother. Bullied by her classmates for her outdated fashion choices, she finds herself lost in an identity crisis. How far will she go to fit in? Meanwhile, Alex is deported from the United States back to Colombia, where his neighborhood has been taken over by dangerous criminals. In order to protect his family, he must decide where he stands in the brewing battle of good versus evil. Lastly there’s David, who left his indigenous village for Mexico City. He now lives with his gang-member cousin, who’s forcefully pushing David to join. Instead, he finds himself immersed in the world of punk rock, desperately searching for a way to escape his cousin’s plans for him. Though miles apart, Maria, Alex, and David are on a very similar journey. X500 explores self-identity and the human need to belong. Though the trio’s circumstances are more dire than most, the film offers a relatable message in its search for inclusion. (In English, French, Mazahua, Spanish, and Tagalog with subtitles) —E.F.