"Dance of the 41" (Spanish: "El baile de los 41") is a poignant Mexican historical drama directed by David Pablos that brings to life a scandalous event from early 20th-century Mexico. The film revolves around a secret party attended by homosexual men, half of whom were dressed in drag, which led to a police raid that exposed societal prejudices and sparked a national conversation about homosexuality.

Released on November 1, 2020, at the Morelia International Film Festival and later on Netflix, the film has garnered attention not only for its compelling narrative but also for its stunning cinematography and authentic representation of historical locations.In this article, we will delve into where "Dance of the 41" was filmed, exploring the significance of each location and how they contribute to the film's narrative. This exploration will cover various sites in Mexico City and Guadalajara that served as backdrops for this impactful story.The Historical Context of Dance of the 41Before we examine the filming locations, it’s essential to understand the historical backdrop against which "Dance of the 41" unfolds. Set in 1901 during the presidency of Porfirio Díaz, the film illustrates a time when societal norms were rigidly defined, particularly regarding sexuality. The actual event depicted in the film involved a police raid on a private gathering that resulted in public humiliation for many attendees. This incident marked one of the first times homosexuality was openly discussed in Mexican media and had lasting implications for LGBTQ+ rights in Mexico.

Filming Locations Overview

"Dance of the 41" was primarily filmed in two major cities: Mexico City and Guadalajara. These locations were chosen for their rich architectural history and cultural significance, which align perfectly with the film's themes. Below is a detailed look at each key filming location.

Casa Rivas Mercado

Located in Mexico City, Casa Rivas Mercado served as one of the primary filming sites for "Dance of the 41." This historic mansion is notable for its eclectic architecture that reflects late-19th-century styles. Originally built as a private residence, it now functions as a cultural center.

• Significance: The mansion represents similar architectural grandeur to that of Ignacio de la Torre's actual residence during his time. The filmmakers utilized this location to evoke an authentic atmosphere reflective of upper-class society during that era.

La Opera

Another significant location is La Opera, a historic bar located in Mexico City's historic center. Known for its stunning interior and rich history, La Opera has been a popular gathering place since its establishment.

• Significance: The bar's opulent decor provides an ideal setting for scenes depicting high society gatherings. Its historical context enhances the film's authenticity by showcasing where elite members of society would socialize.

Museo Nacional de Arte

The Museo Nacional de Arte (National Museum of Art) is another key filming location featured prominently in "Dance of the 41." This museum houses an extensive collection of Mexican art from different periods.

• Significance: The museum's elegant architecture serves as a backdrop for scenes that depict cultural sophistication and artistic expression prevalent during Porfirio Díaz's regime.

Guadalajara

Much of the exterior filming took place in various streets around Guadalajara, particularly in its historic center. Guadalajara is known for its colonial architecture and vibrant culture.

• Significance: The city's streets provided an authentic setting reflective of early 20th-century Mexico. By filming here, the production team could capture both urban life and architectural styles relevant to the period.

Architectural Features Captured in Dance of the 41

The architectural styles showcased throughout "Dance of the 41" are integral to understanding both its aesthetic appeal and historical context:

Eclectic Architecture

The use of eclectic architecture at Casa Rivas Mercado highlights a blend of styles that were prevalent during Díaz's presidency. This style often combines elements from various European influences, symbolizing Mexico's cultural aspirations during this period.

Opulent Interiors

Locations like La Opera feature opulent interiors adorned with intricate details that reflect wealth and status. Such settings are crucial for establishing character backgrounds and societal dynamics within the film.

Cultural Significance

The Museo Nacional de Arte not only serves as a filming location but also represents Mexico's rich artistic heritage. Its inclusion emphasizes themes related to culture and identity within the LGBTQ+ community during a time when such expressions were heavily suppressed.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Filming "Dance of the 41" involved meticulous planning to ensure authenticity:

• Set Design: The production team worked closely with historians and architects to recreate settings that accurately reflected early 20th-century aesthetics.
• Costuming: Costumes were carefully designed to represent both high society fashion and drag attire, highlighting contrasts between public persona and private identity.
• Cinematography: Cinematographer Carolina Costa employed techniques that accentuated natural light within these historic locations to enhance mood and atmosphere throughout various scenes.

"Dance of the 41" is not only a powerful narrative about love and identity but also an artistic representation of early 20th-century Mexican society through its carefully selected filming locations. From Casa Rivas Mercado to La Opera and Museo Nacional de Arte, each site contributes significantly to both visual storytelling and thematic depth.By exploring these locations, viewers gain insight into how historical contexts shape personal narratives within films. As audiences engage with "Dance of the 41," they are invited not only to witness an important chapter in LGBTQ+ history but also to appreciate Mexico's rich architectural heritage captured on screen