Reygadas’ most ambitious film created a storm of controversy for its now notorious opening scene and its unusual critique of religion, patriarchal culture and deep seated sexual taboos. Working without a screenplay and with a cast of non-actors, Reygadas cast his father’s ex-chauffeur in the lead role as a man overwhelmed by dark secrets and his attraction to his boss’ rebellious daughter. A powerful and urgent film, Battle in Heaven balances itsterrifying vision of Mexico City as a global metropolis on the verge of physical and spiritual collapse with moments of rare and even sublime beauty.