A homespun quality is immediately noted in One Taxi Ride. Mac CK’s documentary frames a meandering introduction to Erick, a 27-year-old man living in Mexico City, through a far from polished presentation: focus and sound quality are extremely uneven, and a narrative thread is not immediately apparent. This, however, does not detract from the story or purpose – if anything, its roughness breathes a humanity into an all-too-familiar yet under-discussed tragedy. Ten years after his rape by a taxi driver and his accomplices after leaving a nightclub, Erick is starting a new relationship and is ready to tell his family and new boyfriend about the assault.

The camera’s greatest strength is that it never feels exploitative or overbearing. This sensitivity is reinforced by the fact that some expected scenes are missing, filled in by context – a choice that builds audience trust in the presentation. Additionally, by letting Erick take his time telling those closest to him about his assault, it defines him as a person first and a victim second. This scrapbook style allows further time and reflection with Erick’s family and friends, including poignant scenes where his brothers make sense of Erick’s actions and reactions over the past 10 years.

The subject matter is heavy, and descriptions of the event, the aftermath, and the unburdening in recounting it are not shied away from. One Taxi Ride is a film of reconciliation and release rather than one of inspiration – perhaps a more ultimately hopeful tale than something neater and more palatable.

One Taxi Ride’s intense focus on one man’s words and choices build an intimate, unshowy atmosphere that allows Erick the space to tell his story his way. A powerful narrative about the possibilities of moving on after trauma, this documentary shows a single journey towards recovery with the utmost compassion.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

DIRECTOR: Mak CK

SYNOPSIS: Erick was raped as a teenager by a taxi driver and his accomplices; ten years later, he decides to tell his family and new partner.

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