MOVIES AT LA PLAZA: A BIG, BOLD, BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY-- Fantasies that could be real

Movie Review by Sergio Martínez

The release of this film, directed by Korean filmmaker Kogonada, was preceded by considerable publicity, which can elicit two types of reactions from critics: either it will be one of those productions that truly makes an impact, or they will lament the hype and end up disappointed. It should be noted that the film has many merits, although it is not a masterpiece. However, it is a well-assembled film with an interesting story that entertains and is enjoyable throughout.

Add to this the solid performances of the protagonists: Margot Robbie in the role of Sarah, who delivers the two contradictory and complementary visions of her character: her seductive nature during the wedding, where she meets David (Colin Farrell) and her vulnerability in the memory of her relationship with her mother (Lily Rabe). Farrell, for his part, presents us with a David who has unclear goals in his daily life, heavily dependent on circumstances. This is the trigger that sets in motion the fate that leads him to rent a car after his own has been immobilized with a Denver boot. The strange agency will provide him with a vehicle equipped with a curious GPS that will direct him to various doors in unexpected locations.

What is interesting and original about the story is how, through their journey, encounters, and misunderstandings, and by taking steps through those mysterious doors, the protagonists are led to relive moments from their past and, most curiously, to at least repair some bitter memories. That fantastic world behind the mysterious doors ultimately conceals a real world of unfulfilled desires and plans, of attitudes and actions that one may regret but which, at least in that moment of reflection, can be repaired. At the end of the journey, those who undertook it have rediscovered themselves and their experiences.

Although the film is presented as a romantic comedy, there is more to the journey undertaken by the protagonists than the mere search for romance. We recommend it not only for its originality and interest as an entertaining story, but also because it shows us that there are times when we need a fantastical space to rediscover our own reality.

Running time: 1 hour 49 minutes.