Being a guy i had never before cried after a movie, at least not when i was sober:) The lead is both funny and emotional at the same time. The daughter is very cute. The mother is damn selfish. I can relate myself to this movie in so many ways, i hope you can too. My mother tongue is neither Mexican nor English but i loved this movie just too much. I think Valentin Bravo deserved much more in his life, but its just life being stubborn. When the movie ends you will understand Valentin's sacrifice, bravery and why he tried to keep his daughter in the fantasy world. At the end of the movie Valentin's every decision is justified. Valentin is a true hero!
105 Reviews
Warm, funny, a bit silly at times but truly moving and smartly made
secondtake28 March 2015
Instructions Not Included (2013)
A mostly Mexican comedy about a single man who abruptly finds himself raising a baby girl. And things get funny and wild from there, and enchanting. The goofiness that makes you think the movie is actually kind of stupid (or even bad) mellows and sharpens up as it goes and after half an hour there is a different kind of humor and warmth that really works.
Part of the magic here is the two leads—the father and the little girl—are terrific. And they get along in a way that makes the whole movie buzz. There are still a few corny jokes, but mostly the humor is made up of the funny feelgood things that come along in life.
Amazingly this is Eugenio Derbez's first stab at a feature movie, after years of Mexican television. In fact, the first half hour is exactly like Mexican television. And we all grow out of it together, which is a relief and a sign that there might be more good things to come from this man. (This is true of Mexican directors in general, take note of the last two winners of Best Picture, 2013 and 2014, along with their cinematographer.)
So if you expect something canned or obvious here, you'll be surprised. What you do get above all is a sincere, human drama that is mostly airy and fresh. There are some silly clichés—characters who play types and only the thinnest of those types—but we are lucky that almost all of the movie includes the leading man and the little girl. Watch this and make sure you stick it out past the establishing scenes that build up for a good half hour.
A mostly Mexican comedy about a single man who abruptly finds himself raising a baby girl. And things get funny and wild from there, and enchanting. The goofiness that makes you think the movie is actually kind of stupid (or even bad) mellows and sharpens up as it goes and after half an hour there is a different kind of humor and warmth that really works.
Part of the magic here is the two leads—the father and the little girl—are terrific. And they get along in a way that makes the whole movie buzz. There are still a few corny jokes, but mostly the humor is made up of the funny feelgood things that come along in life.
Amazingly this is Eugenio Derbez's first stab at a feature movie, after years of Mexican television. In fact, the first half hour is exactly like Mexican television. And we all grow out of it together, which is a relief and a sign that there might be more good things to come from this man. (This is true of Mexican directors in general, take note of the last two winners of Best Picture, 2013 and 2014, along with their cinematographer.)
So if you expect something canned or obvious here, you'll be surprised. What you do get above all is a sincere, human drama that is mostly airy and fresh. There are some silly clichés—characters who play types and only the thinnest of those types—but we are lucky that almost all of the movie includes the leading man and the little girl. Watch this and make sure you stick it out past the establishing scenes that build up for a good half hour.
Must Watch
heliodorocortes8 October 2013
First I have to say it is not your typical Hollywood Movie, it isn't Adam Sandler Big Daddy either, its a Mexican comedy with a touch of drama, the great thing about this movie is how well Eugenio puts it together, its fast paced, great acting, nice cast, with good shots and a fine score, it takes you on an emotional ride, you laugh and then you almost cry, then you laugh again, don't worry about subtitles its very easy to follow, the box office down here in Mexico has been spectacular, we had 900,000 viewers Saturday 21st of September, I hope this movie to be the beginning of great crossover films, my brother said "you cant miss it", I agree
An Unexepected Gem
maria-mahecha26 September 2013
My boyfriend and I went to see this with my father last night. It was not at all what I expected and as the movie progressed, I was continually surprised. What a lovely movie. Not just a comedy, but a truly heart-warming story. The little girl's acting performance is Oscar worthy. Seriously, where did they find her? My boyfriend usually hates movies with sub-titles, but this one made it worth the trouble for him. If you speak Spanish, like me, then you will get more of the cultural references, but you don't need to understand Spanish to get this movie. Fear is universal and so are lessons in courage, and this movie really spoke to that. Make sure to take your hankie. Watch, watch, watch this movie!!!
Best Foreign Picture Oscar?
hhorton8 September 2013
I had trepidation when dozens of Latinos entered the theater, but even in subtitles, this gem is so typical of those plucked by Lionheart. The plot is so much more than a rehash of the formula of 'Three Men and a Baby," and I wish I could have created a room like that for my daughter. I have not laughed in delight so much in a long time. This film is beautifully done, with a great behind the scenes look at stunt men, and Hollywood.
Congratulations are due to Eugenio Derbez, the star, director and producer. He is a fine actor with great comic timing, and genuine emotions.
DO NOT MISS THIS GEM.
Congratulations are due to Eugenio Derbez, the star, director and producer. He is a fine actor with great comic timing, and genuine emotions.
DO NOT MISS THIS GEM.
An unexpected visit changes two lives forever in Instructions Not Included
rgblakey30 August 2013
In a world of big budget blockbusters some of the best movies are the smaller independent films from all over the world. The latest Instructions Not Included is a Spanish/American film from writer, director, and star Eugenio Derbez. While he has made appearances in Jack and Jill with Adam Sandler and stole the TV show ROB with Rob Schneider he is already pretty huge in Mexico, this marks his first foray into directing but does he bring his usual comedy chops along with the ability to create a memorable film?
Instructions Not Included follows a resident playboy in Mexico whose life is thrown upside down when a former fling leaves a baby on his door step. He leaves Mexico for Los Angeles in hopes to find the baby's mother, but instead finds a new life as a successful stuntman and raises the girl for over six years. But when her mother returns it risks everything they have built together. This is one of those surprising films that really deliver way more than you may expect. Eugenio Derbez has crafted a great film mixed with plenty of humor blended perfectly with a heart-warming touching story. The film is partly in Spanish and partly in English, but blends both perfectly to create a film that works for not only both markets, but also for all audiences even if they don't like subtitled films. Derbez has everything needed to lead this film with his already established ability with comedy, but carries the emotional aspect needed to bring the rest of this story together effectively. When making a film like this that involves a child actor to be just as integral to the story as the adult lead their performance can make or break the film. Thankfully Loreto Peralta is amazing and is able to hold her own alongside Derbez like a pro, despite this being her first role. Beyond being adorable and having the child innocence, she is able to bring the needed maturity to the role.
This is one of those small films that comes along and will really surprise you. While it has great performances, it lets the story lead the charge and knocks it out of the park. This is a comedy, but be warned this funny man has crafted a film that will not only tickle your funny bone, but also tug at your heart strings.
Instructions Not Included follows a resident playboy in Mexico whose life is thrown upside down when a former fling leaves a baby on his door step. He leaves Mexico for Los Angeles in hopes to find the baby's mother, but instead finds a new life as a successful stuntman and raises the girl for over six years. But when her mother returns it risks everything they have built together. This is one of those surprising films that really deliver way more than you may expect. Eugenio Derbez has crafted a great film mixed with plenty of humor blended perfectly with a heart-warming touching story. The film is partly in Spanish and partly in English, but blends both perfectly to create a film that works for not only both markets, but also for all audiences even if they don't like subtitled films. Derbez has everything needed to lead this film with his already established ability with comedy, but carries the emotional aspect needed to bring the rest of this story together effectively. When making a film like this that involves a child actor to be just as integral to the story as the adult lead their performance can make or break the film. Thankfully Loreto Peralta is amazing and is able to hold her own alongside Derbez like a pro, despite this being her first role. Beyond being adorable and having the child innocence, she is able to bring the needed maturity to the role.
This is one of those small films that comes along and will really surprise you. While it has great performances, it lets the story lead the charge and knocks it out of the park. This is a comedy, but be warned this funny man has crafted a film that will not only tickle your funny bone, but also tug at your heart strings.
My Very First Hispanic Movie
achaninusa8 September 2013
I don't speak Spanish and I do not know any Hispanics, so I had my doubts before attending my first Hispanic movie. That said, I enjoyed the acting thoroughly, I enjoyed the plot and I enjoyed the directing. I am sure I've missed out on the subtleties and nuances, but that's OK, I'll probably go back and watch it again.
Both Derbez as Valentin and Paralta as Maggie ( the Hispanic relatives thought she was named after a "sauce" ) showed impressive histrionic and expensive emotional range to play in this genre, little was lost in translation thanks to the acting from these two.
I'd like to follow the career path of these two actors.
The first ten minutes of the movie with Derbez as the playboy was a bit cheesy, the rest of the movie made up for that.
Lindsey's role as Julie couldn't have been easy but she did a credible job as the cold-hearted ice-lady. Her "boy friend" ( Maggie: She's your boyfriend? :D ), Renee was cut from the same clothe, pretty callous.
Then the bonding grew between Valentine and Maggie, they are the brilliant sunshine that preceded and hid the brewing storm cloud. I don't want to give away too much of the plot.
Go see the movie, you might enjoy it as much as I did.
Bravo, da capo!
Both Derbez as Valentin and Paralta as Maggie ( the Hispanic relatives thought she was named after a "sauce" ) showed impressive histrionic and expensive emotional range to play in this genre, little was lost in translation thanks to the acting from these two.
I'd like to follow the career path of these two actors.
The first ten minutes of the movie with Derbez as the playboy was a bit cheesy, the rest of the movie made up for that.
Lindsey's role as Julie couldn't have been easy but she did a credible job as the cold-hearted ice-lady. Her "boy friend" ( Maggie: She's your boyfriend? :D ), Renee was cut from the same clothe, pretty callous.
Then the bonding grew between Valentine and Maggie, they are the brilliant sunshine that preceded and hid the brewing storm cloud. I don't want to give away too much of the plot.
Go see the movie, you might enjoy it as much as I did.
Bravo, da capo!
On how to confront life, how to enjoy life and how to deal with lost but all these through a roller-coaster of laughs, tears and other feelings in between.
joser_h29 September 2013
After watching "Instructions not included" I can say it is a very good movie. It's not the classic Hollywood comedy. Yes, you will have to read the subtitles sometimes and certainly it is not the classical familiar comedy. Nevertheless it is a very good movie. Forget "Fish out of water father" films, that part is only a fraction in this one nor is the Kramer vs Kramer type although has its part. The film tackles on how to confront life, how to enjoy life and how to deal with lost but all these through a roller-coaster of laughs, tears and other feelings in between. If you are bilingual (English & Spanish speaker), this is a must. This film will be remembered for years to come as the one that broke the inertia of Mexican cinema and probably will sign a new kind of films to come. Go watch it.
An emotionally fulfilling tearjerker with comedic elements
brchthethird14 November 2014
INSTRUCTIONS NOT INCLUDED is a heartwarming story about love and what it means to be family, especially when it doesn't exactly look like what you'd expect. I haven't watched too many Spanish-language films, but for the most part I haven't been disappointed. This falls right in line with the others. Eugenio Derbez directed and starred in this, and the best part of this movie was the chemistry between him and his on screen daughter, played by Loreto Peralta. The relationship they portrayed was very real, believable and touching. There was also lots of humor, even though the movie isn't a straight comedy (the movie was slightly mis-marketed). For the most part the performances are OK, with Eugenio Derbez being the standout. Loreto Peralta also gave quite a good performance for a child actor, although her Spanish delivery was better than her English delivery. Still, despite so much to recommend about this picture there are a few missteps along the way. For one, the pacing is off in some parts and the movie goes on a little too long, though it never quite wears out its welcome. There is a sequence/plot point late in the movie that could have been omitted. Also, at some points it seems like they are trying too hard to be sentimental. However, there is one surprise (which I won't spoil)) that is hinted at early on, but the reveal still caught me off-guard. The movie also ends rather abruptly shortly after this point, which was kind of odd. Still, I challenge anyone watching this to not be moved in some way. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by this film and see no reason why any serious movie-goer wouldn't get some enjoyment out of it as well.
Don't think twice just go watch it!
julietal25 September 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Best movie since "BAJO LA MISMA LUNA". A must go see for everyone especially if this is the type of movie you like. People that are bilingual of course will enjoy it a lot more but my mom speaks Spanish and a little English and got everything and loved it. People that only speak English will probably be missing out on 10% of what they are saying but won't matter because the rest will make up for it. Not sure if it applies for all theaters but mine had horrible translation and was missing the 1 on the numbers. So when they mention 1,000 it showed 000. Anyway go watch you will enjoy it. I missed the first 2 minutes so I will be going back. Thats how good of a movie it was.
great movie different twist
pinkysegun-696-1745647 October 2013
Warning: Spoilers
good movie enjoyed the film. well until where did more came back into her life a woman who abandoned a child for 8 years and coming back to claim the child and acting like it was her dine right, the girl bonded with the mum so quickly irrespective of the fantasy lies the dad told her about her mum, she wont have bonded so quickly. in court she had no case cos she was never in the child's life.And the lesbian partner acting like she was d sperm donor and having a say when even the mum doesn't. this aside its a great film, a contrast to Hollywood's shenanigan family would love it. if the mums return and the ending scene were taking off i would give it a 10, a film i ll still recommend for people to watch.An example of u don't need big budget, or swear/bad words to make a good movie
Beautiful
Bored_Dragon18 October 2016
This is not a comedy. The summary on IMDb could lead you to wrong expectations from this movie. It is somewhat funny, but it definitely isn't a comedy. It is a beautiful, deeply emotional drama about the relationship between a single father and his daughter and about ways they handle all the twists life brings. If you did not shed a single tear during this movie, please go to X-ray and check if you have a heart at all. Technically, it is not anything special, just average production, but the emotion it carries is priceless.
8,5/10
8,5/10
Ready or not this is a flawed but touching film.
estebangonzalez1026 October 2013
"10 dollars for a cab could be the best investment of your life."
Is this film cheesy? Yes! Is it manipulative? Yes! Is it generic? Yes! But there is something about Instructions Not Included that captures the audience's heart and engages them. The film suffers from a rather weak and clichéd opening, but as the story progresses there are truly remarkable moments with some interesting twists along the way that may surprise you. We've seen this premise before in films like Game Plan where a playboy who is afraid of commitment gets his world rocked when he is left in charge of a child he didn't know existed. But this film takes some clever turns transforming this into an above average dramedy that manages to touch your heart. The main themes of the film get across nicely. We are reminded that sometimes life can present challenges in our life that we may not be ready for, but they end up pushing us and we are forced to face our greatest fears for the sake of those we love. There are things we simply can't prepare for and we must learn to deal with those blows. These themes at times might feel a bit overloaded and at times the movie falls into melodramatic territory, but the chemistry between Derbez and Peralta elevate this film. The manipulative and over sentimental moments are eased through comedic relief. This is Eugenio Derbez's feature debut as a director and he delivers a touching family friendly film. He is one of the best known comedians in Latin America for his TV sketches (La Familia P. Luche), and at times the film feels like one. Some of the sketches work really well and others just don't belong here. That is what ultimately hurts the film as a whole, but the sketches are held together by the chemistry between the two leads. Derbez also is great with his play on words, and unfortunately a lot of those elements are lost in the translation, but Spanish speaking audiences will appreciate those moments more.
Valentin (Eugenio Derbez) has always been afraid of mostly everything in life, ranging from small things such as spiders and heights to big things such as commitment. He seems to be living a pretty comfortable life as Acapulco's playboy, but his life takes an unexpected turn when one of his casual encounters comes knocking at his door a couple of years later. Julie (Jessica Lindsey), a former fling he barely remembers, introduces Valentin to his baby daughter and asks him to hold the baby while she returns to pay the cab. Julie never returns, and Valentin is left clueless as to how to care for the baby. Remembering she is from Los Angeles he makes the trip hoping to find her there and return the baby, but as expected he never finds her. Valentin spends the next six years raising his daughter Maggie (Loreto Peralta) in Los Angeles after landing a job as a Hollywood stunt men thanks to a casual encounter with film producer Frank Ryan (Daniel Raymont) who sees how Valentin leaps from the 8th floor of a hotel suit to save his baby from drowning in a pool. Maggie shakes Valentin's world as she becomes the center of his life as he completely spoils her and tells her stories about her mother's heroics across the globe saving the planet. But Valentin is faced with yet another challenge when out of nowhere Julie shows up to meet her daughter now that she feels ready to be a part of her life.
The first 15 minutes of the film feel completely formulaic and clichéd. You expect to know where the movie is heading, and perhaps you might, but there are some interesting twists and shifts of tone that take place that raise the bar for an otherwise below average film. Derbez and Peralta's father and daughter relationship lifts this film thanks to their excellent chemistry. Peralta is a small force and has an on screen charisma and likability, she plays off Eugenio Derbez extremely well. As I mentioned before, the film feels more like a bunch of sketches put together rather than a complete movie, and that is what brings the film down at times. Some of the characters that are introduced during these moments are underdeveloped and we could have been better off without them since the film feels overlong at times. The scenes with the neighbor, played by Karla Souza (from Nosotros los Nobles) don't work at all since the "plumbing" jokes are old and something we have seen before in his TV sketches. The same could be said for Sammy Perez who has worked with Derbez in TV before and is playing the same character. Fans of Derbez might enjoy these small touches, but for international audiences this could have been left out. This is a sweet charming film with a lot of heart that makes for an entertaining viewing with the family. It has many flaws, but at the end I felt it was rather effective. If you don't like being emotionally manipulated than you might not want to see this, but otherwise I would definitely recommend Instructions Not Included (No Se Aceptan Devoluciones).
Is this film cheesy? Yes! Is it manipulative? Yes! Is it generic? Yes! But there is something about Instructions Not Included that captures the audience's heart and engages them. The film suffers from a rather weak and clichéd opening, but as the story progresses there are truly remarkable moments with some interesting twists along the way that may surprise you. We've seen this premise before in films like Game Plan where a playboy who is afraid of commitment gets his world rocked when he is left in charge of a child he didn't know existed. But this film takes some clever turns transforming this into an above average dramedy that manages to touch your heart. The main themes of the film get across nicely. We are reminded that sometimes life can present challenges in our life that we may not be ready for, but they end up pushing us and we are forced to face our greatest fears for the sake of those we love. There are things we simply can't prepare for and we must learn to deal with those blows. These themes at times might feel a bit overloaded and at times the movie falls into melodramatic territory, but the chemistry between Derbez and Peralta elevate this film. The manipulative and over sentimental moments are eased through comedic relief. This is Eugenio Derbez's feature debut as a director and he delivers a touching family friendly film. He is one of the best known comedians in Latin America for his TV sketches (La Familia P. Luche), and at times the film feels like one. Some of the sketches work really well and others just don't belong here. That is what ultimately hurts the film as a whole, but the sketches are held together by the chemistry between the two leads. Derbez also is great with his play on words, and unfortunately a lot of those elements are lost in the translation, but Spanish speaking audiences will appreciate those moments more.
Valentin (Eugenio Derbez) has always been afraid of mostly everything in life, ranging from small things such as spiders and heights to big things such as commitment. He seems to be living a pretty comfortable life as Acapulco's playboy, but his life takes an unexpected turn when one of his casual encounters comes knocking at his door a couple of years later. Julie (Jessica Lindsey), a former fling he barely remembers, introduces Valentin to his baby daughter and asks him to hold the baby while she returns to pay the cab. Julie never returns, and Valentin is left clueless as to how to care for the baby. Remembering she is from Los Angeles he makes the trip hoping to find her there and return the baby, but as expected he never finds her. Valentin spends the next six years raising his daughter Maggie (Loreto Peralta) in Los Angeles after landing a job as a Hollywood stunt men thanks to a casual encounter with film producer Frank Ryan (Daniel Raymont) who sees how Valentin leaps from the 8th floor of a hotel suit to save his baby from drowning in a pool. Maggie shakes Valentin's world as she becomes the center of his life as he completely spoils her and tells her stories about her mother's heroics across the globe saving the planet. But Valentin is faced with yet another challenge when out of nowhere Julie shows up to meet her daughter now that she feels ready to be a part of her life.
The first 15 minutes of the film feel completely formulaic and clichéd. You expect to know where the movie is heading, and perhaps you might, but there are some interesting twists and shifts of tone that take place that raise the bar for an otherwise below average film. Derbez and Peralta's father and daughter relationship lifts this film thanks to their excellent chemistry. Peralta is a small force and has an on screen charisma and likability, she plays off Eugenio Derbez extremely well. As I mentioned before, the film feels more like a bunch of sketches put together rather than a complete movie, and that is what brings the film down at times. Some of the characters that are introduced during these moments are underdeveloped and we could have been better off without them since the film feels overlong at times. The scenes with the neighbor, played by Karla Souza (from Nosotros los Nobles) don't work at all since the "plumbing" jokes are old and something we have seen before in his TV sketches. The same could be said for Sammy Perez who has worked with Derbez in TV before and is playing the same character. Fans of Derbez might enjoy these small touches, but for international audiences this could have been left out. This is a sweet charming film with a lot of heart that makes for an entertaining viewing with the family. It has many flaws, but at the end I felt it was rather effective. If you don't like being emotionally manipulated than you might not want to see this, but otherwise I would definitely recommend Instructions Not Included (No Se Aceptan Devoluciones).
A novel format of television on film
chauri_10185 March 2014
The truth of Eugenio Derbez not know what to expect . Honestly its genre is comedy , this little experiment I perform a drama not bad but obviously you stay was not his best work.
Let's start from the beginning the review . This would be the idea of the film. This story had been previously made in the tape " Big Daddy " performed by actor Adam Sanders , which incidentally mentioned numerous times in the Derbez tape , not to mention other titles in other countries like the UK and Mexico in previous years.
The script has a good intention drama with both ups and downs in the narrative , but when trying to put him touches of comedy lost the punch necessary to give solidity to it.
What most shoulder me attention outside the script and the performances was the lousy sound work that was performed on it. Throughout the film noticeable audio glitches , slamming doors where they will not or sounds that do not conform to the material the object is made heard.
I am not a critic of professional film but I'm a movie buff and student career Animation , which I am getting the necessary education on all important points to keep any visual production, whether filmmaking , for series or film. And the movie is not really bad as it is , only shows the low interest from Mexican producers and the public about the films made in Mexico .
I give it a 5 rating because it was not a disaster tape as I mentioned earlier but could have been better for the prospects of her.
Let's start from the beginning the review . This would be the idea of the film. This story had been previously made in the tape " Big Daddy " performed by actor Adam Sanders , which incidentally mentioned numerous times in the Derbez tape , not to mention other titles in other countries like the UK and Mexico in previous years.
The script has a good intention drama with both ups and downs in the narrative , but when trying to put him touches of comedy lost the punch necessary to give solidity to it.
What most shoulder me attention outside the script and the performances was the lousy sound work that was performed on it. Throughout the film noticeable audio glitches , slamming doors where they will not or sounds that do not conform to the material the object is made heard.
I am not a critic of professional film but I'm a movie buff and student career Animation , which I am getting the necessary education on all important points to keep any visual production, whether filmmaking , for series or film. And the movie is not really bad as it is , only shows the low interest from Mexican producers and the public about the films made in Mexico .
I give it a 5 rating because it was not a disaster tape as I mentioned earlier but could have been better for the prospects of her.
Eugenio Derbez make a magnificent directorial debut.
jfcoglezr7 October 2013
Eugenio Derbez is brilliant. As director he delivers a beautiful story and he make a magnificent debut, and as actor he accomplished express deep feelings with both comedy and drama, in the other hand the girl(Loreto Peralta) steals the movie, I hope she get to work in other movies like Dakota Fanning did before one after another because she HAVE it. I am proud to be Mexican and also I am enchanted with the movie's quality and form of telling the tale, maybe the ending is not what I expected but Mexican cinema permits tragicomedy, so in a way fulfill my feeling that this was more than only splat comedy. Eugenio's movie is successful in the way the movie is appealing both for Mexicans (Latinos) and Americans (English speaking) audience. I like very much all the success in the box-office he's having and really deserves all this attention, he is very talented and this is the first of many movies he is going to make and direct. Viva Eugenio!
Great!!!
candyh101010 September 2013
This is the Best movie ever!! I thought it was going to be like other movies, but it sure was a different movie with ongoing scenes and jokes. this is a great movie that the whole family will enjoy!!... loved that it was spoken in both languages! Just for the fact that Eugenio is a great comedy actor gave me that feeling that it was going to be a good movie.Now that I watched it, I have to take my whole family to watch it and I am willing to go for the second time. I think comedy movies are the best and this is a great movie that other producers should look into to be able to have more movies like this. I kinda do not know what to write anymore, I just want to say that is a great movie and people can have a great time watching it!!! love it!!!!
Well worth it even if you don't speak Spanish.
AdultAudienceMember31 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
It wasn't until the beginning credits rolled that the wife and I realized that this movie is mostly in Spanish with English subtitles. We hadn't noticed that here in a very wealthy Dallas burb, we were two of the very few gringos in the room. We decided to stay. Glad we did. Great movie. Great acting. This is not Cantiflas nor is it some of the really stupid stuff you see on Spanish TV.
This is not Three Men and a Baby or some piece of Adam Sandler poop. This is a great treatment of the plot of a single guy who finds himself in the possession of his illegitimate baby daughter.
No clichés. No Hollywood stupid. Just good acting in this dramedy.
I don't get the low rating. The theater was packed and people were standing in line for the next showing. We are glad we stayed.
This is not Three Men and a Baby or some piece of Adam Sandler poop. This is a great treatment of the plot of a single guy who finds himself in the possession of his illegitimate baby daughter.
No clichés. No Hollywood stupid. Just good acting in this dramedy.
I don't get the low rating. The theater was packed and people were standing in line for the next showing. We are glad we stayed.
Eugenio Derbez should become a big star in Mexico and the U.S. (after this)!
Hellmant23 January 2014
'INSTRUCTIONS NOT INCLUDED': Three and a Half Stars (Out of Five)
Blockbuster Mexican comedy-drama film about a playboy living in Acapulco who becomes a single father to a young girl, when her mother abandons her at his door one day. Drama develops when the mother returns six years later wanting to rejoin her daughter's life. The film was directed by, co-written and stars Eugenio Derbez. Derbez is a popular Mexican television actor making his feature film directorial and writing debut. The film has become the highest grossing Spanish-language movie in the United States and the highest-grossing Mexican film of all time as well. I found it to be funny and somewhat emotional and am especially impressed by Derbez (in all his film duties).
Derbez plays Valentín, a playboy living in Acapulco who had a very adventurous childhood; as his father (Hugo Stiglitz) put him in all kinds of dangerous situations in order to teach him to overcome his fears. Now he's become a self absorbed man child but that all changes when a woman from his past, Julie (Jessica Lindsey), shows up at his door telling him he's the father of her baby. After asking for some cash to pay her cab driver she takes off, leaving the baby with Derbez (who must then take care of it on his own). Valentin moves with the child to America and get's a job as a successful stuntman. The reluctant father soon finds happiness with his daughter (Loreto Peralta) until her mother shows back up six years later.
Derbez is a really good comic actor; he has a ton of enthusiasm, energy and character. He also is a good director (the movie looks beautiful) and clever writer. He's almost entirely the reason this movie really works (and was such a success at the box office). The other actors are all decent but the story and comedic scenarios are nothing we haven't seen before. Derbez really shines though; he should become a big star in Mexico and the U.S. (after this)!
Watch our movie review show 'MOVIE TALK' at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2NdCvPRYk4
Blockbuster Mexican comedy-drama film about a playboy living in Acapulco who becomes a single father to a young girl, when her mother abandons her at his door one day. Drama develops when the mother returns six years later wanting to rejoin her daughter's life. The film was directed by, co-written and stars Eugenio Derbez. Derbez is a popular Mexican television actor making his feature film directorial and writing debut. The film has become the highest grossing Spanish-language movie in the United States and the highest-grossing Mexican film of all time as well. I found it to be funny and somewhat emotional and am especially impressed by Derbez (in all his film duties).
Derbez plays Valentín, a playboy living in Acapulco who had a very adventurous childhood; as his father (Hugo Stiglitz) put him in all kinds of dangerous situations in order to teach him to overcome his fears. Now he's become a self absorbed man child but that all changes when a woman from his past, Julie (Jessica Lindsey), shows up at his door telling him he's the father of her baby. After asking for some cash to pay her cab driver she takes off, leaving the baby with Derbez (who must then take care of it on his own). Valentin moves with the child to America and get's a job as a successful stuntman. The reluctant father soon finds happiness with his daughter (Loreto Peralta) until her mother shows back up six years later.
Derbez is a really good comic actor; he has a ton of enthusiasm, energy and character. He also is a good director (the movie looks beautiful) and clever writer. He's almost entirely the reason this movie really works (and was such a success at the box office). The other actors are all decent but the story and comedic scenarios are nothing we haven't seen before. Derbez really shines though; he should become a big star in Mexico and the U.S. (after this)!
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My wife dragged me to watch this, but...
agzv7230 August 2013
I had the feeling that this movie was going to be a Mexican chicko - flicko, but it turned out to be a nice, enjoyable movie.
My guess is that Hispanics enjoy it more, specially adults, who even clap at the end of the movie.
Maybe I missed some of the jokes in the translation, because0 other people was laughing more than I did.
Nice changes in the mood through the story ... Do not expect the typical Hollywood movie, in which all is just action, or just jokes, or just a one thing during the whole movie. Here they move from the initial comedy to something more substantial .
At the end, you realized that the movie communicates a nice and important message.
You will walk out of three with more than just laughs .
I recommend the movie for those that want to see something different, that is worth watching .
My guess is that Hispanics enjoy it more, specially adults, who even clap at the end of the movie.
Maybe I missed some of the jokes in the translation, because0 other people was laughing more than I did.
Nice changes in the mood through the story ... Do not expect the typical Hollywood movie, in which all is just action, or just jokes, or just a one thing during the whole movie. Here they move from the initial comedy to something more substantial .
At the end, you realized that the movie communicates a nice and important message.
You will walk out of three with more than just laughs .
I recommend the movie for those that want to see something different, that is worth watching .
Decent family movie but twisted in a small way
thenekassyni16 January 2014
Lead actor is good and so is the daughter. There are a few scenes where the chemistry is awkward but for the most part they are a good match. The limited CGI is just OK as the movie doesn't really require it. There is a twist to the story and you won't find this out til much later in the film which leads to the ending. It is touching and surprising.
The low rating is actually for the premise of how the mother left the kid. The mother, in short, is a whore. She used the father, she used and abandon the kid, she betrayed everything the father and daughter had by taking them to court and making them both look like criminals. The only problem is that the movie does not depict her in any "bad" fashion and I think this does the film little credit. At least some sort of explanation should have been made. But even if there was, what she did throughout the movie was despicable. At least at the end she "had" to let go of her hate and enjoy the time. To me, this does not make up for what she had done throughout the movie.
Whore is much too nice of a word for the mother. I highly recommend viewers consider this aspect of the story as the movie does not do it justice.
The low rating is actually for the premise of how the mother left the kid. The mother, in short, is a whore. She used the father, she used and abandon the kid, she betrayed everything the father and daughter had by taking them to court and making them both look like criminals. The only problem is that the movie does not depict her in any "bad" fashion and I think this does the film little credit. At least some sort of explanation should have been made. But even if there was, what she did throughout the movie was despicable. At least at the end she "had" to let go of her hate and enjoy the time. To me, this does not make up for what she had done throughout the movie.
Whore is much too nice of a word for the mother. I highly recommend viewers consider this aspect of the story as the movie does not do it justice.
Don;t judge a book by it's cover, this is the best film I've seen this year!!
santiagonunez165 September 2013
I first saw this advertised as a trailer for Grown Ups 2 and thought this was going to be the latino Big Daddy. Afterall, this is the same guy who was in Jack and Jill as the gardener in that lame Sandler movie from 2011. I caught this movie as an advanced show and must say I was very surprised. The humor was fun but believable, and this movie has something few comedies do today---it has a heart. The story is simple, a play boy finds out he has a daughter and is left to raise her when the mother-who was a one time fling-abandons her at his doorstep. During the first six years of her life we see him grow from a selfish slacker to a responsible dad. Eventually, the father/daughter find themselves living in the US where dad is now a Hollywood stuntman--in a very funny bit--with his daughter as his coach and best friend. As you would expect, mom comes back and this is where the story gets serious. You might think you have seen this before but trust me, you haven't as there are so many twists and turns to surprise even the most cynical movie critic. what I enjoyed most about this film is the humanity in the story, it was believable, unlike the juvenile crap of the latest Sandler/Ferrell crap. This movie received a standing ovation from a packed theatre. Don't judge a book by it's cover, this is the best film I've seen this year.
Single fatherhood eventually causes conflict, then brief conciliation, before it turns tragic
estherwalker-347104 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Be forewarned that probably 98% of the dialogue is in Spanish. I chose English on the screen for the subtitles, but none appeared. So, I chose English subtitles on my remote, and they appeared.
Next, I will point out something extraordinary about the collective ratings of the reviews. I tallied the various ratings from a random sample of 54 reviews, and found that 49 of them had a rating above the given mean rating for all those who submitted a rating! Only one rating was in the middle range of 5,6, or 7! So, where are all the missing reviews from those who rated the film below 7.5 needed to balance out to 7.5?? Clearly, the ratings of reviews represent a very biased sample of all ratings submitted!
This the second film(the other being "Overboard") I've recently seen in which Mexican Eugenio Derbez is the leading man. In both, he begins as a wealthy single playboy, constantly surrounded by nubile bimbos. In both films, soon, he involuntarily gives up his playboy lifestyle to become the surrogate father to one or more girls. In this film, he is presented with a baby girl by Julie: a former American fling, who immediately leaves on a flight for L. A., without giving him an address. The implication is that he is the father. What to do with the baby? He decides to keep it, with some help from a woman friend. Soon, he decides to hitchhike from Acapulco to L. A.(apparently, he's all of a sudden poor!?), with the baby, named Maggie, and look for Julie, his only clue being the name of a hotel in the background of a photo of her! Lacking a passport, he's rejected by immigration, but sneaks into a 18 wheeler loaded with illegal immigrants, who get through. He finds this hotel and inquires if they have seen Julie. They tell him that she used to work here, but was fired for being caught in an indiscretion in one of the rooms. They don't know where she has gone. For some? Reason, Eugenio(as Valentin) lays the baby down in a convenient basket in the lobby, and takes the elevator to the top floor. He enters a room and finds a movie director, who mumbles about the difficulty of finding a stuntman who's willing to fall from a high building. Valentin looks down from the open window, and sees Maggie crawling toward the swimming pool! He jumps out the window in an effort to save her from drowning. Miraculously, he lands in the deep end of the pool, rather than on the pool surround, where he should have landed, and saves Maggie from drowning! The director is impressed with his spontaneous daring, and offers him a job as a stuntman, which he takes. This entire episode looks awfully contrived!! Valentin gets settled with Maggie and mostly tends to her and plays with her in his spare time, for the next 4 years, until she is 6: a beautiful blonde, like her mother.
Well, you 'know' that eventually Julie is going to come looking for Maggie. Somehow?, she finds out that Valentin is in the L. A. area, and finds his address and phone number! She calls him up and tells him she wants to see Maggie, greatly disturbing Valentin, who fears she will want to take Maggie. His fear is eventually born out, and most of the last portion of the film is concerned with this conflict, ending in brief conciliation, before a tragic surprise ending.
A surreal event happens while Valentin and Maggie are walking down a LA road toward Acapulco, trying to escape the clutches of Julie. A 18 wheeler stops to pick them up, and when they open the door, they are horrified to find that Julie is the driver!! Conveniently, the film then switches to another time and place, leaving us wondering how this event played out!
The theme of the film is that, as a child, you should be trained to confront your fears and to be ready to deal with various unexpected challenges. As an example, Valentin and Maggie jump together off a high cliff overlooking the ocean near Acapulco.
Some think Eugenio is too ugly to be a leading man, and attract lots of bimbos. However, he has large, expressive, eyes that are perfect for expressing fear and anger, as shown in this film.
Next, I will point out something extraordinary about the collective ratings of the reviews. I tallied the various ratings from a random sample of 54 reviews, and found that 49 of them had a rating above the given mean rating for all those who submitted a rating! Only one rating was in the middle range of 5,6, or 7! So, where are all the missing reviews from those who rated the film below 7.5 needed to balance out to 7.5?? Clearly, the ratings of reviews represent a very biased sample of all ratings submitted!
This the second film(the other being "Overboard") I've recently seen in which Mexican Eugenio Derbez is the leading man. In both, he begins as a wealthy single playboy, constantly surrounded by nubile bimbos. In both films, soon, he involuntarily gives up his playboy lifestyle to become the surrogate father to one or more girls. In this film, he is presented with a baby girl by Julie: a former American fling, who immediately leaves on a flight for L. A., without giving him an address. The implication is that he is the father. What to do with the baby? He decides to keep it, with some help from a woman friend. Soon, he decides to hitchhike from Acapulco to L. A.(apparently, he's all of a sudden poor!?), with the baby, named Maggie, and look for Julie, his only clue being the name of a hotel in the background of a photo of her! Lacking a passport, he's rejected by immigration, but sneaks into a 18 wheeler loaded with illegal immigrants, who get through. He finds this hotel and inquires if they have seen Julie. They tell him that she used to work here, but was fired for being caught in an indiscretion in one of the rooms. They don't know where she has gone. For some? Reason, Eugenio(as Valentin) lays the baby down in a convenient basket in the lobby, and takes the elevator to the top floor. He enters a room and finds a movie director, who mumbles about the difficulty of finding a stuntman who's willing to fall from a high building. Valentin looks down from the open window, and sees Maggie crawling toward the swimming pool! He jumps out the window in an effort to save her from drowning. Miraculously, he lands in the deep end of the pool, rather than on the pool surround, where he should have landed, and saves Maggie from drowning! The director is impressed with his spontaneous daring, and offers him a job as a stuntman, which he takes. This entire episode looks awfully contrived!! Valentin gets settled with Maggie and mostly tends to her and plays with her in his spare time, for the next 4 years, until she is 6: a beautiful blonde, like her mother.
Well, you 'know' that eventually Julie is going to come looking for Maggie. Somehow?, she finds out that Valentin is in the L. A. area, and finds his address and phone number! She calls him up and tells him she wants to see Maggie, greatly disturbing Valentin, who fears she will want to take Maggie. His fear is eventually born out, and most of the last portion of the film is concerned with this conflict, ending in brief conciliation, before a tragic surprise ending.
A surreal event happens while Valentin and Maggie are walking down a LA road toward Acapulco, trying to escape the clutches of Julie. A 18 wheeler stops to pick them up, and when they open the door, they are horrified to find that Julie is the driver!! Conveniently, the film then switches to another time and place, leaving us wondering how this event played out!
The theme of the film is that, as a child, you should be trained to confront your fears and to be ready to deal with various unexpected challenges. As an example, Valentin and Maggie jump together off a high cliff overlooking the ocean near Acapulco.
Some think Eugenio is too ugly to be a leading man, and attract lots of bimbos. However, he has large, expressive, eyes that are perfect for expressing fear and anger, as shown in this film.
Totally worth it!!!
alejandrodeleon55931 August 2013
I'll be honest, I was dragged in to see this movie but was quickly enthused and charmed by the undeniable chemistry between father and daughter(Eugenio Derbez, Loreta Peralta). The very first minutes weren't exactly my cup of tea but it it gets to the point eagerly and you get the whole message of the title along with it. Don't confuse it for just another meager Disney squall of becoming a family film. No where throughout the movie did I remember the pacifier or the Game Plan those were particularly distasteful movies I could hope to forget. Instructions Not Included finds heart and answers many questions all of us have asked about life. All the troubles and dismay we go through are for not, the very essence of where we have placed our hopes lie within the children we take care of and honestly there aren't any instructions included through the sobs, the laughs, and the peace we come to while they teach us how to grow.
Watch this movie and I promise you won't forget it and bring a box of Kleenex for your tears.
Watch this movie and I promise you won't forget it and bring a box of Kleenex for your tears.
Nice movie...
Thanos_Alfie4 December 2021
"Instructions not Included" is a Comedy - Drama movie in which we watch a man finding out he has a daughter when she was left on his doorstep. Some years later her mother resurfaces and they all have to find the balance.
I liked this movie because despite its simple plot it was interesting and it contained many beautiful scenes that combined comedy with drama. The direction which was made by Eugenio Derbez was very good and he presented both his main characters and the plot in a very good way and without creating any confusion. The interpretation of Eugenio Derbez who played as Valentín was very good and he did an amazing job in both direction and his interpretation. Finally, I have to say that "Instructions not Included" is a nice comedy movie and I recommend you to watch it because I am sure that you will laugh and you will have a great time.
I liked this movie because despite its simple plot it was interesting and it contained many beautiful scenes that combined comedy with drama. The direction which was made by Eugenio Derbez was very good and he presented both his main characters and the plot in a very good way and without creating any confusion. The interpretation of Eugenio Derbez who played as Valentín was very good and he did an amazing job in both direction and his interpretation. Finally, I have to say that "Instructions not Included" is a nice comedy movie and I recommend you to watch it because I am sure that you will laugh and you will have a great time.
Cheesy series B movie
sboby-2506626 August 2019
This movie is a not so funny comedy that tries hard to be sweet and touching using already seen and cheesy expedients. It's full of cliché, the plot is totally unlikely and unrealistic most of the time in a way that it's annoying even if it's a comedy, the production quality is of series B. It's all about making you think "awww, what a sweet child" and "awww, what a lovely father".
If you like this kind of movies (nothing bad about it) and you are in that mood, you may even like it. But absolutely don't believe 10/10 reviews. It's just a light cheesy movie as many others. Anyone in his/her mind with a little of good taste would recognize that this is far from being a cinematic masterpiece ^.^"
If you like this kind of movies (nothing bad about it) and you are in that mood, you may even like it. But absolutely don't believe 10/10 reviews. It's just a light cheesy movie as many others. Anyone in his/her mind with a little of good taste would recognize that this is far from being a cinematic masterpiece ^.^"
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