Quinceañera directed by Richard Glatzer and Wash Westmoreland

• Plot summary: Magdalena is worried about her upcoming quinceanera. The dress designed for her special day isn't fitting properly, and soon everyone will know that she is pregnant with her boyfriend Herman's baby. On top of that, they won't believe she is a virgin! When the news gets out, Herman's mother sends him away and Magdalena is kicked out of the house. She goes to live with her uncle Tomas and her gay cousin Carlos, who has also been kicked out of his house. Together, Carlos and Magdalena forge a bond and make themselves into a new family. Will Magdalena's family ever believe her?
• Critical evaluation: Even in the worst situations, people are able to band together to create new support systems for themselves. Such is the situation for Carlos and Magdalena, who have both been expelled from their families for the embarrassment they have cause their families. A benevolent uncle, Tomas, assumes the role of guardianship for the two and together they make the best of a sad situation. Magdalena wishes her parents would believe her that she never had sex with Hermann and Carlos wishes his parents weren't so put off by his sexuality, but when her mother finds out that she is in fact a virgin (after a gynecological exam), Magdalena chooses Carlos as her date to her own quinceañera. Together they walk bravely into reception of their family, strong with the support they give to each other. These elements together make for a great film and one that many teens will be able to relate to.
• Reader's annotation: Magdalena was upset that she had to borrow her cousins dress and be without a limousine for her quinceañera, that is, until she found out what her real problems were.
• About the author: Richard Glatzer grew up in Queens and has worked on a number of projects, including America's Next Top Model and Pedro. Wash Westmoreland hails from England and has been involved in projects such as Gay Republicans and The Fluffer.
• Genre: Drama
• Curriculum ties, if any: Social studies (cultural traditions)
• Reading level/interest age: This film is rated R and intended for people 17 or older, however I think this might appeal to people 15 and up.
• Challenge issues: Substance usage, sexuality, profanity, violence
• Why was this item included? This item is highly rated among various groups of people and involves a young adult who has to make tough decisions in her life.