Lyrical Documentary Hummingbirds Captures Two Friends' Lives on the US-Mexico Border

Released in the spring of 2020, "Hummingbirds" is a captivating lyrical documentary that delves into the lives of two close friends, Silvia Del Carmen Castaños and Estefanía (Beba) Contreras, in Laredo, Texas, near the border with Mexico.

As the camera follows their footsteps along the Rio Grande, Beba humorously remarks, “I’ve never been this close to the river except when I crossed.” This candid moment captures the everyday reality of living near the border, where mundane actions can have deeper connections to broader social issues.

A Glimpse into Their World

While "Hummingbirds" does not directly tackle social issues, it provides an intimate look into Silvia and Beba’s summer experiences. The documentary showcases their leisurely activities, including stargazing, enjoying fireworks, harmonizing in song (Beba is a talented songwriter), and browsing through the dollar store.

Interestingly, both Silvia and Beba not only star in the documentary but also co-direct it. Their dual roles as directors and subjects bring a unique perspective to the film, offering a personal and unfiltered view of their lives. Silvia, 18, and Beba, 21, during filming, naturally infuse the documentary with their genuine enthusiasm for every moment captured.