A Family Drama Celebrating Spanish Culture

          Manuel Medina is 12 years old in the summer of 1941.  He lives in Taos, New Mexico with his mother, sister and two brothers.  His father is a shepherd who must go to Nevada to find work, forcing him to stay away for long periods.  His children do not really know him and are actually afraid of him when he returns.  Manuel, in his father’s absence, has taken over as head of the family.

          When his father returns, he finds out Manuel has stolen a book to write a book report for school.  Because of the shame brought on the family, Manuel’s father decides to take him to Nevada for the summer.  Unable to avoid what he believes is punishment, he is taken from his home on a remarkable journey.  Through a series of adventures in the desert with his father, Manuel goes through a rite of passage.  He discovers he is capable of doing things he never dreamed he could do and that his father is a remarkable and wonderful friend.  Their bonding together as father and son, as companions, is the heart of this true story.

          At the end of the summer, the sheep ranch owner throws a big party for Manuel’s 13th birthday.  Manuel has never had such a thrilling experience in his life.  The whole eventful summer has been kind of a miracle journey.  After a tearful farewell, Manuel heads back home on the train.  Upon his return to Taos, his mother and siblings hardly recognize him.  While he left home a boy, he is returning as a man.  Not only is he tan and taller, he has a kind of stature and dignity he never had before.

          After settling into his old routine with his family and friends, Manuel knows his life has been changed forever.  His wonderful love for his father has filled his life with deeper meaning.  His memories of his remarkable summer are shattered with devastating news.  After promising to come home for Christmas, Manuel’s father is killed breaking a horse.  The body arrives by train in New Mexico and the whole Spanish community turns out to honor this simple shepherd and Manuel’s beloved father.

          The Shepherd’s Song was written by entertainment industry veteran Mark Miller.  The film will feature scenic locations in southern Colorado and New Mexico.

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