Watch Day Labor

Day Labor is a 2008 independent drama film directed by Joel Serrato. The film depicts the lives of several day laborers in Los Angeles as they struggle to make ends meet in a city that does not offer them many opportunities. The story follows Francisco (Wes Bailey), a young man who immigrated from Mexico to the United States with his wife and young daughter. Francisco struggles to find work and support his family but is forced to take on odd jobs as a day laborer. Francisco quickly forms a bond with his fellow day laborers, including the wise and experienced Pablo (Sylvester Berry) and the restless, ambitious Rafael (Justin Cave).

As the film progresses, the audience sees the hardships that the day laborers face every day. They deal with harsh, unreasonable employers, low pay, dangerous working conditions, and the constant fear of deportation. Despite these challenges, the day laborers are shown to be resourceful, determined, and deeply committed to their families.

One of the most compelling aspects of Day Labor is its portrayal of the diversity within the Hispanic community. The film showcases the myriad of backgrounds, cultures, and personalities of its characters, which stands out from more stereotypical depictions of Hispanic individuals that one often sees in mainstream media.

Zelda Albright, who plays Lila, a young woman who works at a coffee shop near the day labor hiring center, provides a refreshing perspective on the day laborers' struggles. Lila is compassionate, hardworking, and curious about the workers, and her interactions with them provide a glimpse into the lives of those we often overlook or take for granted.

Overall, Day Labor is a poignant and thought-provoking film that tackles issues around immigration, labor, and human dignity. The film reminds us that behind every worker - no matter where they come from - there is a story, a family, and a dream. The film's themes are especially relevant today in light of ongoing debates around immigration policy and worker's rights.

In terms of its technical achievements, Day Labor is a notable example of micro-budget filmmaking. The film was made on a shoestring budget, but the director and cast managed to produce a film that is artistically and emotionally impactful. The film's cinematography is particularly impressive, with beautiful shots of Los Angeles's street scenes, sunsets, and urban landscapes that add to the film's overall atmosphere.

In conclusion, Day Labor is a must-see film for anyone interested in independent cinema, stories about the working class, and social justice issues. The film's powerful message, memorable characters, and skilled direction make it a standout among films from the same genre. Despite its low profile and limited distribution, Day Labor is a hidden gem that deserves a wider audience.