The world premiere of Uvalde Mom at the SXSW Film Festival was a profoundly emotional experience, made even more poignant by the presence of the film’s subject, Angeli Rose Gomez, and several other cast members. Given the documentary’s heavy nature, the festival ensured counselors were in attendance, underscoring the lasting trauma of the Robb Elementary School shooting.
Directed by Anayansi Prado, this feature-length documentary tells the harrowing yet inspiring story of Gomez, a farm worker and single mother who defied police orders to rescue her two sons during the tragic events of May 24, 2022. On that day, 19 children and two teachers lost their lives while nearly 400 law enforcement officers waited outside for 77 agonizing minutes.
Gomez, small in stature but undeniably mighty in spirit, became a reluctant hero when footage of her desperate sprint out of the school went viral. However, her bravery came at a cost—after speaking out against law enforcement’s shocking inaction, she faced harassment and intimidation. The film does not shy away from her struggles before and after the shooting, painting a complex picture of resilience in the face of systemic failures.
Prado’s direction is intimate and unflinching, allowing the audience to witness the pain of the Uvalde community and their fight for accountability. The cinematography by E.J. Enríquez and M.J. Johnston captures both the raw emotion and the stark reality of the aftermath, while Pablo Proenza’s editing keeps the narrative tight and impactful. Ramachandra Borcar’s score is appropriately haunting, never overshadowing the voices of those who lived through the tragedy.
The documentary also gives voice to other survivors and community members, such as teacher Arnulfo Reyes, who was gravely wounded in the shooting but continues to advocate for change. Their testimonies add depth and weight to an already devastating story.
At its core, Uvalde Mom is a call for justice—a stark reminder that courage is not just about facing danger but about refusing to be silenced. The film left many in the audience visibly shaken, yet inspired by Gomez’s unwavering determination. In a world where institutional failures often go unchecked, her story demands to be heard.