Title: Intimate Documentary Sheds Light on Life as a Female Hitman in Mexico
Subtitle: “Placeada, Historia íntima de una ex sicaria” offers a raw and honest portrayal of a former hitman’s criminal life in Mexico
Mexico City – Filmmaker Alejandra Sánchez’s latest documentary, “Placeada, Historia íntima de una ex sicaria,” takes viewers on a gripping journey through the criminal life of Gabriela López, a former female hitman. The documentary, currently playing at the Cineteca Nacional, offers an intimate and unfiltered account of López’s experiences, from her entry into organized crime as a teenager to her eventual release from prison.
The film examines the psychological and emotional toll of a life steeped in violence and oppression. López, who joined a drug trafficking cell in Ciudad Juárez at the tender age of 12, shares chilling anecdotes and reflects on her path from adolescent hitman to a commanding figure in the criminal underworld. Trained in shooting ranges and international travel, López’s story provides a rare glimpse into the dark reality of organized crime.
Director Alejandra Sánchez spent several years building a close relationship with López to capture her story authentically. The filmmaker aimed to understand the factors that led a young girl like López to be seduced by organized crime in a male-dominated industry. Sánchez emphasizes the need for society to address the conditions that still allow youngsters to be recruited into criminal activities.
Sánchez’s documentary challenges the audience’s perception of criminals, revealing the similarities between López’s dreams and desires and those of ordinary citizens. The film elicits a range of emotions, from tears for lost friendships to unexpected laughter at López’s dark humor, resonating deeply with audiences.
By sharing López’s story, Sánchez hopes to contribute to the larger conversation about violence in Mexico. The director advocates for a society based on love and compassion, urging the government to provide alternative options for children and communities to deter them from a life of crime.
Reflecting on the banality of evil, Sánchez acknowledges the complex interplay between individual choices and societal context. She stresses that addressing the root causes of violence and improving living conditions can shape a less violent society. While she applauds the government’s efforts to implement social programs, Sánchez believes there is still much work to be done to tackle corruption and improve the administration of justice.
“Placeada, Historia íntima de una ex sicaria” offers a thought-provoking exploration of the dark world of organized crime through the eyes of a former hitman. The documentary forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about society while providing hope for a future where stories like López’s become a thing of the past.