Through the children's eyes, we encounter the world of devout Catholic miners who sever their ties with God upon entering the mountain. It is an ancient belief that the devil, as represented by hundreds of statues constructed in the tunnels, determines the fate of all who work within the mines. (Never mind the fact that the "Tio" is a version of the devil conjured up by the mines' owners hundreds of years ago as a means of worker oppression.)

Raised without a father and living in virtual poverty with their mother on the slopes of the mine, Basilio and Bernadino assume many adult responsibilities. They must work to afford the clothing and supplies vital to their education. Basilio believes only the mountain devil's generosity will allow them to earn enough money to continue the new school year. We encounter a world where survival is all and homework is a treat, for only education can provide an escape route. But the boys are determined to make the best of the hand they've been dealt. Award winning documentary.

Festivals:
Edinburgh & Rotterdam International Film Festival 2005
Tribeca Film Festival - Winner - Emerging Filmmaker Special Mention
Hot Docs Film Festival - Winner - FIPRESCI Award and Best International Film - Honorable Mention.
Jerusalem Film Festival - Winner - Best International Documentary
Mexico City Film Festival - Winner - Humanitarian Award

Official site: www.thedevilsminer.com