Mayra Hermosillo's directorial debut, "Vanilla," has made a notable impact at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, premiering on September 3, 2025, as part of the Giornate degli Autori (Venice Days) sidebar. The film, set in northern Mexico during the late 1980s, centers on an eight-year-old girl named Roberta who witnesses her family's efforts to preserve their home amidst financial difficulties.
"Vanilla" delves into themes of identity, family bonds, and the multifaceted experience of womanhood, drawing inspiration from Hermosillo's own childhood. The film has previously received recognition at industry events like Ventana Sur and Cinelatino Toulouse. Its artistic merit and broad appeal have led to its acquisition by Bendita Film Sales, ensuring its distribution to a global audience.
Produced by Redrum and Huasteca Casa Cinematografica, "Vanilla" features a cast of both experienced actors and emerging non-professional talent. The production received support from Mexico's FOCINE, FONCA, and Guadalajara CTT, with principal photography commencing in 2023. Hermosillo, known for her acting roles in projects such as Netflix's "Narcos: Mexico," brings her directorial vision to this deeply personal story.
The film's cinematography is handled by Jessica Villamil, and Sonia Sánchez Carrasco serves as the editor. With its successful premiere at the Venice Film Festival, "Vanilla" is set for a theatrical and streaming release, marking a significant achievement for Hermosillo's career and for Mexican cinema on the international stage.