Preview: London MexFest 2013

MexFest (London, 11-14 July) // Words: Saam Das

London's celebration of contemporary Mexican culture, MexFest, returns for its second edition this week. Showcasing some of Mexican's finest artists in areas such as architecture, film, and music, with special guest attendees including actor/director Diego Luna. Find out five of our top picks for the festival, across the various London venues.

'J.C. Chavez'

(Sat 13 July, 19:30 - Rich Mix + Sun July 14, 14:00 - Rich Mix)

Diego Luna has made his name as an actor appearing in the likes of 'Y Tu Mamá También' and 'Milk' but has been slowly making waves as a director in the past few years. MexFest 2013 sees the UK premiere of his 2007 feature film debut, a documentary on Mexican boxer Julio Cesar Chavez.

'After Lucia'

(Fri 12 July, 18:00 - Rich Mix + Sat 13 July, 18:15 - Rich Mix)

One of the most powerful films of last year's BFI London Film Festival, and perhaps even any previous London Film Festival. Michel Franco's unsettling tale of the stumbling relationship between a father and child, amid intense bullying and grief, deservedly won the Un Certain Regard at Cannes in 2012. A must-see.

'Facing The Future: Art And Architecture In Modern Mexico'

(Fri 12 July, 18:30 - The Reynolds Room, Royal Academy Of Arts)

Architect Miquel Adria delivers an overview lecture on art and architecture in Mexico, alongside a roundtable discussion to help further explore the topics. The event also relates to the gallery's exhibition 'Mexico: A Revolution In Art, 1910-1940'.

'The Young And The Damned'

(Sun 14 July, 16:00 - BFI Southbank)

Luis Buñuel is one of the most well-known filmmakers in the history of Mexican cinema, thanks to films such as this 1950 offering and 'Un Chien Andalou'. Indeed, 'The Young And The Damned' gave Buñuel further recognition, earning him the Best Director Award at Cannes in 1951.

Manuela De Laborde: 'Sun'

(Sun 14 July, 17:00 - Rich Mix)

Artist Manuela De Laborde has created a video piece based on the natural cycle of day and night but using artificial means, including El Wire - a new optic fibre technology. Somewhat reminiscent of a starry sky, the piece will be accompanied by live music. And best of all, it's free of charge.

Find more info and purchase tickets through mexfest.mx.