Home » Short film » Routine (2022): a short film about Homophobia and Hope in Mexico
“Routine” tells the story of Mario, a closeted gay teen who silently endures the homophobia of his everyday life. As his parents, peers, and strangers casually express their disdain for the LGBTQ+ community, Mario clings to the hope that an upcoming vote on same-sex marriage will improve things. The film masterfully conveys the monotony and despair that come from living in a hostile environment, where even the smallest of interactions carry the weight of rejection. In the end, Mario bravely confronts his family, revealing his true self in an emotional outburst, but the societal change he seeks seems distant, leaving him stuck in the cycle of his routine. “Routine” is a moving reflection on the loneliness, fear, and hope experienced by closeted LGBTQ+ individuals.
The film opens on a typical day in Mario’s life: his mother offers him scrambled eggs or chilaquiles for breakfast while the television blares with news of a tragic incident and the upcoming vote on same-sex marriage. His father dismisses the vote with disgust, setting the tone for the rest of the film. Every day Mario is bombarded by homophobic comments—from his parents, a taxi driver, and his high school classmates—all of which reinforce the idea that society does not accept people like him.
The vote on same-sex marriage becomes a symbol of Mario’s hope. He believes that its approval might bring about a shift in the oppressive atmosphere he lives in and possibly salvage his budding romance with a classmate. However, the rejection of the bill becomes the breaking point, forcing Mario to confront his family and his own identity. His emotional outburst towards his mother reveals years of repression and the pain of seeking love and acceptance in an environment that refuses to give it.
“Routine” is not a groundbreaking film in terms of narrative, but it is an honest and raw portrayal of the struggles faced by closeted LGBTQ+ individuals. It doesn’t try to be sensational or overly dramatic; instead, it focuses on the everyday experiences of a young man trying to survive in a world that rejects him. The film’s message is clear: the routine of homophobia may seem ordinary to those who perpetuate it, but for those like Mario, it is an unbearable weight to carry. “Routine” is a quiet but necessary contribution to queer cinema, offering a glimpse into the harsh reality of living with fear and silence.
