I’m No Longer Here

In a vibrant neighborhood in Monterrey, Mexico, 17-year-old Ulises is the leader of a group of friends known as “Los Terkos,” a tight-knit crew dedicated to the unique urban street culture of cumbia and dance. Their lives revolve around the pulsing rhythms of the city, expressing their identity through dance battles and motorcycle rides, all while navigating the sometimes violent realities of their surroundings. Meanwhile, Ulises discovers a growing desire to break free from the constraints of his environment, yearning for a life beyond his hometown’s concrete walls.

When a clash between rival gangs spirals out of control, Ulises finds himself caught in a web of misunderstanding and turmoil, leading him to a tragic choice. To escape the escalating violence, he is forced to flee to New York City, leaving behind his family, friends, and the very culture that defined him. As he adjusts to life in a bustling metropolis, Ulises struggles with his feelings of alienation, grappling with a profound sense of loss for the life he once knew.

In New York, Ulises encounters a diverse tapestry of characters, each representing different facets of immigrant life. From a streetwise graffiti artist who introduces him to a new artistic community to a sympathetic waitress who knows the longing of leaving home, Ulises begins to explore the idea of belonging and identity in a world vastly different from his own. However, as he delves deeper into this new lifestyle, he also faces the heart-wrenching reality of what he left behind.

“I’m No Longer Here” artfully captures the clash of cultures while emphasizing deep themes of identity, nostalgia, and resilience. Through Ulises’ journey, viewers witness the struggle of balancing one’s roots with the pursuit of new dreams. As he learns to embrace change, he comes to terms with his past, ultimately discovering that while he may have left Monterrey, the rhythm of his heart and the spirit of cumbia will forever be a part of him. This heartfelt coming-of-age story is a poignant reminder that home is not just a place but a feeling that can transcend borders.