Mateo (ATOM Study Guide)

Mateo (2014) is a Colombian feature film directed by María Gamboa.

Sixteen-year-old Mateo (Carlos Hernández) collects extortion money on behalf of his Uncle Walter (Samuel Lazcano) and uses his wage to help his mother Made (Miriam Gutierrez), who grudgingly accepts the ill-gotten money out of need. Mateo and his mother live by themselves in a poor Colombian neighbourhood. When Mateo's school threatens him with expulsion he is expected to join a theatre group run by the town's priest Father David (Felipe Botero). Walter expects Mateo to uncover incriminating information about the members of the theatre group. Under pressure, Mateo must make difficult choices.

Curriculum Links:

Mateo is suitable for students in Years 9–12 studying English, Languages (Spanish) and Media Studies.