Maximón: Devil or Saint (2014)

• 91%
• 2014
• Documentary
• Robert Flanagan

MAXIMON - Devil or Saint (66min.) is a documentary about the controversial Maya deity, also known as San Simon or the drinking and smoking saint of Guatemala. He is a mixture of ancient Maya beliefs and Christianity. The movie concentrates on the people who surround Maximon with their strong personalities, opinions and faith. The documentary gives us a rare view into the rituals and fiestas honoring Maximon. The cult of Maximon is flourishing because he performs miracles. He is also feared and despised because he is used to cast curses that can result in death. Ultimately, Maximon transcends the duality of good and evil, reflecting the Maya cosmovision in which everything in the universe co-exists.