Salon Mexico is a 1949 Mexican film directed by Emilio Fernández. It stars Marga López and Rodolfo Acosta, and is primarily recognized as an iconic example of the golden age of Mexican cinema known as the Época de Oro.
The film provides a vivid portrayal of the Mexico City cabaret scene of the 1940s. Marga López's character, Mercedes, works at Salon Mexico as a dancer and prostitute, supporting her younger sister Beatriz's education at a prestigious private school with her earnings. Beatriz is unaware of her sister's true profession.
Mercedes becomes involved with Paco, a pimp who exploits her for financial gain. When Mercedes and Paco win a danzon contest together, she expects to split the prize with him. However, Paco refuses to share the winnings, and Mercedes steals the money while he sleeps.
The film explores the themes of class, gender, and morality in Mexican society, highlighting the harsh realities faced by working-class Mexican women. Salon Mexico effectively conveys a sense of the social and political upheaval of the time, and its innovative cinematography is a hallmark of the period.
Salon Mexico was a critical and commercial success upon its release and has since become a beloved classic of Mexican cinema. The film is remembered as a testament to Emilio Fernández's skill as a director and to the immense talents of its lead actress, Marga López.
