A Day Without a Mexican


A Day Without a Mexican is a 2004 film directed by Sergio Arau.
It offers a satirical look at the consequences of all the Mexicans in the state of California suddenly disappearing. A series of characters shows the apparent statistical impact of Mexicans on California's economy, law enforcement, and education systems and the resulting social unrest. It was Eduardo Palomo's last film.

Release

The film opened on May 14, 2004, in limited release throughout Southern California and on September 17 in theaters in Chicago, Texas, Florida, and New York City as well as San Jose.

Cast

Reception

The film was number one at the box office in its opening weekend in Mexico, although it was only a moderate box-office success in the United States, grossing an estimated $4.1 million.
The film's 2004 awards include best screenplay at the Cartagena Film Festival and a nomination for best film, a special jury award at the Gramado Film Festival, and an award for best editing at the Guadalajara Film Festival.
On Rotten Tomatoes it has a score of 27% based on reviews from 22 critics.
Ella Taylor of the LA Weekly describes it as, "A terrific premise is mangled to a pulp, then beaten to death in this forced mockumentary."
E! was less kind, stating, "This Day not only lacks Mexicans but also good acting, sharp storytelling, and humor."