Las llaves de la independencia

Lázaro Expósito is a young revolutionary in mid-nineteenth century Mexico. This story tells us the life of a boy who, from his very birth, is adopted by Javier Artal a member of a Spanish landowning family but within this family he is repudiated by his father’s elder brother because of his race and origin. This fact will mark him as he grows up in a comfortable environment although he is aware he does not really form part of it. The continuous in-and-outs of the story allow us to get to know Lázaro who is strong in fighting and tender in love but who will never get to know his true origins. The story takes place on an estate run-down from constant fighting which was the famous Artal Brothers Estate before the war. They arrived with their wives from Spain and their descendants were already born on the other side of the Atlantic.

Directed by Carlos Gil, Las llaves de la independencia leans on a strong ensemble — Fernando Carrillo, Fernando Luján, Charo López — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2005.