What It’s About
Violeta (Sevilla), a cabaret performer in the seedier section of Mexico City, witnesses the abuse of submissive colleague Rosa (Caballos) by vain, zoot-suited pimp Rodolfo (Acosta). When Rosa bears his child, Rodolfo won’t acknowledge it. Rosa then abandons the baby, Violeta rescues him and raises him as her own, aggravating the proud Rodolfo. These two are bound to tangle!
Why We Love It
Mexico’s foremost director at the time, Fernandez combines ripe melodrama, noir and some first-rate rumba numbers (Sevilla could really move!) to create something special. There’s little subtlety here, but a lot of ripe atmosphere and activity, captured in glorious B&W by Gabriel Figueroa. Star Sevilla’s high octane energy and fire burst off the screen. Dark but heroic in portraying a strong female protagonist, this “Sin” is not easily overlooked.