[SXSW ’21] ‘Women is Losers’ review: Poignant look at a woman’s right to happiness

Lisette Feliciano’s Women is Losers tells the story of a young Catholic Latina growing up in the 1960’s. The social rules of the time, laws, and cultural obstacles are set in place to keep her from succeeding, but Celina Guerrero finds a way. Lorenza Izzo stars in this inspiring comedy drama about the power of determination and making one’s way in the world. 

Celina and her best friend Marty have big plans. Celina is a math whiz and Marty dreams of becoming a pilot. They are teenagers with their lives ahead of them until an unplanned pregnancy causes them to really think about their future. A decision to terminate the pregnancy shapes their fates.  Feliciano’s writing and characters are rich and detailed. The scenes are filled with important moments that shape the motivation and character development. 

Feliciano’s film discusses the restrictions of gender roles and racial discrimination in the workplace. Celina gets help from her boss Gilbert, a Chinese Immigrant who is no stranger to cruelty of the Chinese Exclusion Act. He tells Celina that sometimes everyone needs a hand trying to make their way in the world. Celina is able to learn from this lesson when she is able to give someone else a hand.  

The film begins by breaking the fourth wall. Celina and her partner Mateo are in the middle of a very public fight when they ask the audience to excuse the low budget setting and lighting while they continue their screaming match. This sets the fast paced and playful tone of the film. Women is Losers is a funny film, but it is also moving and at times terrifying.

Feliciano highlights the dangers that women faced due to restrictions on civil rights and the objectification faced daily. This meta approach gives an intimate look into Celina’s life and even offers insights into supporting characters; however, at times there is a bit too much information packed in that does not have enough time to flourish. 

Women is Losers is a funny and emotional journey that will inspire anger and hope. Women is Losers is making its world premiere at South by Southwest Film Festival.

SXSW is March 16 – March 20. Tickets and a full lineup can be found here.