Exotic Mexico

Exotic Mexico (1942)

** 1/2 (out of 4)

If you're a fan of James A. FitzPatrick's TravelTalks series then you'll obviously know that it was a very popular series back in the day that allowed most people in America a chance to see other parts of the world. This one here starts off in southern Mexico where we learn about the various customs. One location we visit is a railroad that was once used to transport items from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. From here we learn about the women of Tijuana, their background as well as the head gear they wear. Indian art is also discussed as well as a special dance that is done. For the most part this here is another entertaining episode that has some nice images as well as some historic interest as well. This is especially true when they discuss the Pan Am road that was to run from Alaska to South America.

James A. Fitzpatrick sends the Technicolor cameras under cinematographer Wilfred Cline to southern Mexico to talk about the local railroad, the refurbished railroad to supplement the Panama Canal's traffic, and Diego Rivera and his collection of local archeological artifacts.

This MGM Traveltalk was shot during the Second World War, when most of the usually far-ranging series stayed in the United States. One or two got as far as the Canadian border, but half a dozen were shot in Mexico. Fitzpatrick's narration is restrained for him. Although he lards his almanac points with his usual long-winded verbiage, he does not shout, as he did before the war. Visually this is average for the series, and the copy that plays on Turner Classic Movies is in pretty good shape.

In the southern part of Mexico, there is a railroad across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Prior to the Panama canal, it was an important route. The people have colorful costumes and customs. Then we arrive at the state capital Oaxaca and the ruins of Monte Albán. There is artist Diego Rivera with his collection of relics.

This is a TravelTalks episode. The color film is well used for the colorful costumes. The wartime episodes tend to stay within the US and North America at most. It's probably why it stresses a couple of travel links to emphasize the robustness of the transport system. Even if the Panama canal is lost, there is a railroad to take its place. This is a bit of propaganda even in a travelogue like this.

This James Fitzpatrick film is like browsing through an old issue of National Geographic. In the 1940's and 50's, when American tourists began to venture outside their country, they discovered traditions and entertainment that went beyond Christmas and the Fourth of July. What better holiday photos to bring back than native women in colourful costumes celebrating centuries old festivities. The wonders of the ancient people of Tijuana has Mr. Fitzpatrick gushing with his usual enthusiasm. This historic people become another spectacle for the travelling public as Mr. Fitzpatrick describes the varied background and traditions of people in the region.