“Tijuana, todavía”, interview with director Gabriel Gutierrez Morales and actor/producer Humberto Busto

Gabriel Gutierrez Morales, director of Tijuana, todavía, and Humberto Busto, who served as producer and lead actor, discuss their film’s journey into the Biennale College programme and its screening at the Venice Film Festival 2026. The project explores themes of immigration, aging, and LGBTQ+ identity through a deeply human lens. Their conversation sheds light on the challenges of making a meaningful film within strict budget and time constraints, as well as the emotional resonance it has found with audiences.

The Experience of Producing Tijuana, todavía Within the Biennale College’s Strict Framework

Busto explains that working under the programme’s tight budget of only €200,000 and a ten-month deadline was an intense challenge, especially given the high standards expected for a Venice screening. He emphasizes that such a limited budget requires extensive collaboration with creative professionals, particularly in Mexico’s Tijuana region, where the film was primarily shot. Busto highlights that the emotional authenticity of the story is what truly connects with viewers, especially those sharing similar experiences as LGBTQ+ immigrants over 40. He notes that the film’s sincerity often sparks genuine conversations, which is rare in cinema that tends to lean toward intellectual engagement rather than emotional truth.

Tijuana, todavía as a Reflection of Personal and Social Themes

Morales discusses how the film intertwines personal experiences with broader social issues, blending the realities of gay life and immigration. He reveals that the story is inspired by a close friend, a Russian gay man who fled his country due to political repression and homophobia. Morales explains that the film aims to portray its characters as multidimensional individuals, not defined solely by their sexual orientation or immigrant status. He points out that the film’s focus on human complexity was intentional, aiming to challenge stereotypes and foster empathy among diverse audiences, including middle-aged women who have responded positively to the story.

The Significance of Tijuana, todavía’s Empathetic Portrayal of Immigration and Age-Gap Relationships

Both Morales and Busto highlight the importance of depicting shelters and immigrant experiences with compassion and authenticity. They chose to portray a shelter as a supportive community space, contrasting with often bleak or stereotypical representations. Morales shares that the film’s depiction of a relationship between a middle-aged man and a much younger partner was designed to explore genuine connection without resorting to clichés or sensationalism. He reflects on how their own life experiences and personal connections influenced this portrayal, aiming to show that age-gap relationships can be consensual and meaningful, free from stereotypes of manipulation or power imbalance.

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