Leticia Neria PhD thesis - Research@StAndrews:FullText ...

negatively depicted in films. The existence of guerrilla groups appeared only in the
comics.
Reflecting on these topics helps us create a portrait of the political and social
reality of Mexico. Despite more than fifty years passing since the Revolution, there
were still major inequalities. Some basic necessities such as social security, equal
opportunities, employment, services, and others had not been satisfied. We can see how
the political class was understood as abusive and authoritarian, and how a contagious
corruption ran right through Mexican society. Although the apertura democrática
allowed these issues to emerge, the very apertura itself was questioned and criticised by
some intellectuals and artists, such as Rius. However, all is not lost. To poke fun at the
faults was a way to notice them, invite a reflection on them, and try to correct them. At
least one sector of society, as the filmmakers and cartoonists, were concerned about the
destiny of Mexico and through their own language they expressed their discomfort.
Films and comics became not only entertainment but also a social awakening. Thus, the
prevalence of critical content revealed its salience. The authors and directors clearly
wanted to discuss these issues, and the readers and audiences recognised the realities,
understanding the media as a microcosm, and some of the situations as allegories of
Mexican reality.
Except for Los Agachados, President Echeverría was not directly criticised in the
media, but other governmental authorities, such as governors and diputados, became the
butt of jokes. It was possible to understand that these officials embodied the presidential
figure. As we know, abuse of power and exploitation were widespread. People suffered
oppression and poverty, and were excluded from political participation. Politicians were
perceived as abusive and idle. Mexican citizens suffered day by day from the decisions
of their leaders. But both media were careful to avoid the president.
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