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Postales is a 2010 independent drama film directed by Josh Hyde. The movie tells the story of Rodrigo (Guimel Soria Martinez), a young man from El Salvador who decides to travel to the United States in search of a better life. The film explores themes related to immigration, family, and identity. Shot on location in both El Salvador and New York City, Postales features a cast of relatively unknown actors who deliver powerful performances.

The film opens with Rodrigo leaving his hometown in El Salvador and attempting to enter the United States illegally. After being caught by border patrol agents, he is deported back to his home country. Rodrigo then decides to try and enter the United States legally by acquiring a visa. He travels to the capital city of San Salvador and works odd jobs to save enough money to pay for the visa application. While in the city, he meets Ana (Nadia Alexander), a young woman who is also seeking a better life in the United States. The two become friends and Rodrigo accompanies Ana to her visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy. However, her application is denied, and Ana is forced to return to her small town.

Meanwhile, Rodrigo's grandfather is gravely ill and his family is struggling to pay for his medical care. Rodrigo decides to take matters into his own hands and, with the help of a friend, attempts to rob a pawnshop. However, the robbery goes wrong and his friend is shot and killed. Rodrigo flees the scene, but not before the pawnshop owner takes his photograph. The photo ends up in possession of the U.S. Embassy, and Rodrigo's visa application is denied.

Desperate and without any options, Rodrigo decides to return to his home village in El Salvador. However, he is pursued by the pawnshop owner who wants revenge for his friend's death. In the end, Rodrigo is forced to make a difficult decision that will change the course of his life forever.

Postales is a powerful and emotional film that explores the challenges faced by immigrants who attempt to enter the United States. The movie is particularly relevant today given the ongoing debates about immigration policy in the United States. Despite the seriousness of the film's subject matter, there are moments of humor and tenderness that provide a welcome balance to the more intense scenes. The acting is superb, particularly from Guimel Soria Martinez, who portrays Rodrigo with a subtlety and depth that is impressive for such a young actor.

One of the strengths of the film is its realistic depiction of life in El Salvador. The country is shown as a place of both beauty and struggle, with characters grappling with poverty, violence, and political instability. This contrasts sharply with the bright lights and promise of the United States, which is portrayed as a place of opportunity but also disappointment and heartache.

In terms of cinematography, Postales is visually stunning. The movie is shot on 16mm film, which gives it a grainy, textured look that is both nostalgic and intimate. The use of natural light and muted colors adds to the film's sense of realism and authenticity.

Overall, Postales is a beautifully crafted and thought-provoking movie that is not to be missed. It tells a timely story with compassion and nuance, and its characters will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Postales is a 2013 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.