In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, ESPN presents “Las Amazonas de Yaxunah,” a documentary that exemplifies ESPN’s commitment to authentic and diverse storytelling. The film debuts on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes tonight at 8 ET and again at 11, with an extended version streaming afterward on ESPN+.
(Kelly Backus/ESPN Images)
Las Amazonas follows an indigenous women’s softball team from the small Mayan village of Yaxunah in Yucatán, Mexico, as they break barriers and challenge traditional gender roles. The film captures their journey, showcasing the powerful intersection of sport, culture, and identity.
The Spanish version is narrated by Oscar-nominated Indigenous Mexican actress Yalitza Aparicio (“Roma”), while the English version is narrated by Xochitl Gomez (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness).
Through this film, ESPN highlights the power of storytelling, sharing stories that reflect resilience, tradition, and cultural pride. ESPN senior post editor Diego Martini helped bring this remarkable story to life on screen. He shares with Front Row his approach to editing the documentary and the emotional impact it has had on audiences.
How did the Yucatán setting and its culture influence the storytelling in the film?
The Yucatán setting is the very foundation of the story. Nothing captures the warrior spirit of these women more than seeing where they come from. For many viewers, the way of life in Yaxunah is unimaginable without seeing it firsthand.
How did you approach capturing the resilience and spirit of the Mayan women’s softball team through your editing?
In the 18 months it took to edit the film, I was inspired by their everyday reality — dirt floors, hammock beds, and cooking over open fires. The story became much more than softball. It’s about women, especially indigenous women, overcoming life’s obstacles.
Which player’s story is the most compelling for you and why?
It’s hard to pick just one since all two dozen players have unique storylines. I marvel at how Sitlali is so focused on her self-growth, embarking on the path of education to better her life and her family’s. I’m equally drawn to Yessica and her sister Alvi, who are working to preserve their Mayan village and way of life — a tradition passed down for centuries.
What was the most rewarding part of editing this film?
Being allowed to immerse myself in the lives of the subjects of this piece and later see their faces as they saw themselves on the big screen. It was a transformative experience to be welcomed into their homes and lives and be able to interpret that into something the community of Yaxunah is proud of.
What has been the reaction to the film at previews, and how satisfying has that been?
The Los Angeles premiere was one of the most memorable moments of my life! The audience was incredibly receptive. They laughed, cried, and, in the end, gave a standing ovation. It was fulfilling to see how our work moved people so profoundly. Seeing my editing work, (and that of my peers– colorists and sound designers), on a huge movie theatre screen had my heart bursting with pride.
What do you hope audiences take away?
I hope viewers see the strength and resilience of these women, who face poverty, discrimination, and isolation from the world. Despite it all, they continue to forge ahead.
How did Aparicio’s narration enhance the storytelling?
Yalitza’s involvement brought a powerful layer to the story. Her voice as a young indigenous woman emphasized the importance of representation. She was excited to be a part of the project and even contributed an idea that we used in the film’s conclusion.
During the voice-over recording session in Mérida, México, we were all chatting about the documentary as a whole, and she had suggested to be able to hear the team chant in the background at the very end of the film. It is a subtle audio element during a very tender mom-and-daughter moment.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Las Amazonas de Yaxunah will visit ESPN’s headquarters in Bristol, Conn., the day after the film’s premiere for an exclusive internal screening. The team also is attending the New York Latino Film Festival on Saturday, Sept. 21.
EXECUTIVE VOICE: Head of Digital Content and Audience Expansion, Freddy Rolón on Las Amazonas, more
Actress Yalitza Aparicio, who narrates the film in Spanish, poses on the red carpet.
(Melina Pizano/ESPN Images)
ESPN's senior post editor Diego Martini, standing second from left, poses with the stars of Las Amazonas (in the white uniforms) at the film's June 2024 preview in Los Angeles.
(Melina Pizano/ESPN Images)
