Introduction

Rosaura Revueltas, a Mexican actress, and activist, was known for her exceptional acting skill. Her career was one that was filled with challenges and accomplishments. She rose to prominence during the Mexican Golden Age of Cinema and used her platform to shed light on political issues. In this blog post, we will delve into 10 fascinating facts about Rosaura Revueltas you need to know.

Fact 1: She worked on the film, “Salt of the Earth”

Rosaura Revueltas’ role in the American independent film, “Salt of the Earth” is the one she is best known for. She played the character of Esperanza Quintero, a Mexican-American worker who helps lead a strike. The film was written by Michael Wilson, directed by Herbert Biberman, produced by Paul Jarrico, and starred Revueltas, Will Geer, and David Wolfe.

Fact 2: She was jailed for her political activities

During her stint in Hollywood, Rosaura Revueltas was a vocal critic of social injustices and inequality. Her political activities led to her being blacklisted from mainstream Hollywood film productions. In 1953, she was convicted for refusing to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee and sent to prison.

Fact 3: She was part of the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema

Rosaura Revueltas, born in 1910 in Durango, Mexico, was an actress during the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema. She appeared in many films like “The Punished”, “La Escondida”, “Los Olvidados”, and “Macario”. Her performances in those movies helped to establish her as one of the leading actresses of the period.

Fact 4: She was expelled from Mexico

Due to her political views, Rosaura Revueltas was expelled from Mexico in 1952. She sought refuge in Hollywood and continued to act in movies until she was blacklisted. After her release from prison in 1955, she moved to France, where she continued to act in films.

Fact 5: She was awarded a prize at the Cannes Film Festival

In 1953, her remarkable performance in the Luis Buñuel-directed film, “La hija del engaño,” earned her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Fact 6: She was a member of the Mexican Communist Party

Rosaura Revueltas was a member of the Mexico Communist Party and was a strong advocate of labor rights and social justice. Her political views led to her being blacklisted from Hollywood, which was known for its anti-communist stance.

Fact 7: She got her start in theater

Before becoming a film actress, Rosaura Revueltas was a theater actress in Mexico City. Her performances in the theater productions of Federico García Lorca and Anton Chekhov earned her considerable acclaim.

Fact 8: She was a teacher

After moving to France, Rosaura Revueltas became a teacher. She taught theater and Spanish literature at the University of Toulouse.

Fact 9: She worked with the American actor, John Gavin

Rosaura Revueltas worked with the American actor John Gavin in the film, “Pedro Páramo”. John Gavin played the role of Juan Preciado, and Rosaura Revueltas played the role of Dorotea.

Fact 10: She died in a car crash

Rosaura Revueltas’ life ended tragically when she died in a car crash in Mexico City in 1996. She was 86 years old.

Conclusion

Rosaura Revueltas was a talented actress and an advocate for civil rights and labor rights. Despite the challenges that came her way, she remained resilient and continued to make an impact in the entertainment industry. Her contributions to cinema and activism continue to be celebrated.

FAQs

Q1: What was Rosaura Revueltas’ most notable role?

A: Rosaura Revueltas is best known for her role in “Salt of the Earth”, a film about Mexican-American workers who led a strike in New Mexico.

Q2: What was the Cannes Film Festival award that Rosaura Revueltas won?

A: Rosaura Revueltas won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival in 1953 for her role in “La hija del engaño.”

Q3: What were Rosaura Revueltas’s political views?

A: Rosaura Revueltas was a member of the Mexican Communist Party and was an advocate for social justice and labor rights.

Q4: What was the cause of Rosaura Revueltas death?

A: Rosaura Revueltas died in a car accident in Mexico City in 1996.

Q5: Was Rosaura Revueltas ever blacklisted in Hollywood?

A: Yes, Rosaura Revueltas was blacklisted in Hollywood for her political activities and views.