While I do have some criticisms of this movie, I want to state upfront that this is a good movie that is definitely worth seeing. However, I think this movie is a bit over-hyped after winning major awards at Sundance.
The best part of this movie is definitely Emily Rios in the role of Magdalena. It appears that this was her first major role in a movie, but after viewing this performance, it definitely won't be her last. Whether or not she will win or be nominated for any awards for this role I'm not sure, but if she does, it is very much deserved.
I had three criticisms though that made the film less realistic in my eyes:
1. Jesse's eulogy at Uncle Tomas's funeral. While consistent with his character as being heartfelt, it seemed far too articulate for someone of his intellect.
2. Towards the end when things are going bad for Uncle Tomas, Jesse, and Magdalena, it just seemed there were too many bad things all going wrong at the same time.
3. I understand that American movies star physically attractive men and women rather than average-looking ones. However, the group of girlfriends were just about all super-attractive, including Emily Rios, who was ostensibly playing the role of the "plain" cousin.
The best part of this movie is definitely Emily Rios in the role of Magdalena. It appears that this was her first major role in a movie, but after viewing this performance, it definitely won't be her last. Whether or not she will win or be nominated for any awards for this role I'm not sure, but if she does, it is very much deserved.
I had three criticisms though that made the film less realistic in my eyes:
1. Jesse's eulogy at Uncle Tomas's funeral. While consistent with his character as being heartfelt, it seemed far too articulate for someone of his intellect.
2. Towards the end when things are going bad for Uncle Tomas, Jesse, and Magdalena, it just seemed there were too many bad things all going wrong at the same time.
3. I understand that American movies star physically attractive men and women rather than average-looking ones. However, the group of girlfriends were just about all super-attractive, including Emily Rios, who was ostensibly playing the role of the "plain" cousin.