Apple pays homage to Mexican music and traditions with short film "¡Suerte!" starring Iván Cornejo

The legendary Mexican game Lotería, not to be confused with the lottery, has many versions. There is the traditional, the millenial, Día de muertos, historia de México and more. Now there is a version of it as a movie, which has been filmed on an iPhone 15 Pro in its entirety.

The captivating short film, titled "¡Suerte!" and unveiled by Apple, celebrates Mexican culture through the beloved game. Directed by the talented duo Pasqual Gutiérrez and RJ Sánchez, known collectively as Cliqua, this film captures the essence of Mexican heritage.

Iván Cornejo makes his debut as an actor

The story of "¡Suerte!" follows a Mexican American musician, portrayed by rising star Iván Cornejo, as he embarks on an emotional journey back to his roots in search of inspiration. The narrative weaves through the colorful and iconic characters of the Lotería.

As Cornejo's character interacts with figures like La Sirena, La Muerte, and El Pescado, he rediscovers the rich traditions and cultural heritage that shape his identity and music.

In addition to his acting debut in "¡Suerte!", Iván Cornejo also contributed his musical talents to the project. His single, "Intercambio Injusto," serves as a poignant soundtrack to the film, echoing the themes of uneven exchanges in relationships. Cornejo's heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies capture the emotional depth of the film's narrative, adding another layer of authenticity and cultural resonance.

Filmed on iPhone

Directors Gutiérrez and Sánchez used features such as Cinema Mode, 5x optical zoom, and low-light recording, all part of the technical capacities of the iPhone 15 Pro Max, to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. The filmmakers' innovative approach combined traditional filmmaking techniques with cutting-edge technology, resulting in a unique and immersive portrayal of Mexican culture.

The film premiered on YouTube on July 11, 2024. It was accompanied by a series of public displays featuring images of the Lotería characters captured by Oaxacan photographer Enrique Leyva. These visual tributes are displayed in various cities across Mexico.

Cornejo expressed his excitement about the project, stating: "I'm honored that my song has been brought to life in such an amazing way. The film and its story resonate deeply with my own journey and the themes I explore in my music." His upcoming album, "Mirada," set to release on July 18, coinciding with his 21st birthday, continues this exploration of personal and artistic growth. The album features "Intercambio Injusto" and promises to push the boundaries of Cornejo's musical style.