Historical accuracy of Roma
Characters
Story
Setting
Historical accuracy of: Roma
Characters
Story
Setting
Characters
Cleo's personal life
Cleo's story is inspired by the director's own childhood nanny, Liboria 'Libo' Rodríguez. While based on a real person, Cleo's specific experiences and relationships are fictionalized for the film.
The portrayal of the family
The family Cleo works for is based on the director's own family. While the film draws on his personal experiences, the specific interactions and character dynamics are fictional.
Setting
Life in 1970s Mexico City
The film beautifully captures the atmosphere and daily life in Mexico City in the 1970s, including the architecture, social dynamics, and cultural context. This is a strong aspect of the film's historical accuracy.
The 1971 Corpus Christi Massacre
The Corpus Christi Massacre, a real event in which student protesters were killed, is depicted in the film. Its inclusion is crucial to the film's historical context and its exploration of social and political tensions.
The social class divisions
The film accurately portrays the stark social class divisions in Mexico City at the time, with the wealthy family Cleo works for living a privileged life compared to the domestic workers and those in poorer neighborhoods. This is a key theme and is historically accurate.
The role of domestic workers
The film gives a voice to the often-overlooked role of domestic workers in Mexican society. It accurately shows their contributions and the often-unequal power dynamics in their relationships with their employers.
The depiction of the hospital
The film depicts the conditions and care in the hospital where Cleo gives birth. While specific details are unknown, the depiction of the hospital's resources and the level of care is likely consistent with the era.
The cultural references
The film is filled with subtle cultural references to the time period, from music to television shows to everyday objects. These details contribute to the film's authenticity and historical accuracy.
The depiction of the 'Halcones'
The 'Halcones', a government-backed paramilitary group involved in the Corpus Christi Massacre, are depicted in the film. Their existence and actions are a historical fact.