Fernández, Emilio

Born Mar. 26, 1904, in Hondo, in the state of Coahuila. Mexican motion-picture director, screenwriter, and actor.

Fernández took part in the revolutionary movement from an early age. He was arrested, and in 1926 he escaped from prison and emigrated to the USA. In 1928 he began appearing in films in Hollywood, performing roles that demanded agility and daring. After returning to Mexico in 1933 he acted in films, becoming a director in 1942.

The film Maria Candelaria (1944) brought Fernández world renown. He also directed The Wild Flower (1943), The Pearl (1946), Rio Escondido (1948), Maclovia (1948), A Village Girl (1949; released in the USSR as A Mexican Girl), and The Net (1953). Beginning in 1958 he acted in and occasionally directed films abroad. In 1967 he directed the film A Loyal Soldier of Pancho Villa in Mexico.

Fernández’ films portray ordinary people and reflect Mexican folklore, customs, and daily life; they are permeated by the freedom-loving spirit of the Mexican people. Fernández’ style of directing is marked by austerity, realistic clarity, and great sensitivity. G. Figueroa was the cameraman for most of Fernández’ films.