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Reviews
Nacho Libre (2006)
I liked this movie and would recommend it.
This movie isn't your typical Jack Black movie in the sense that its humour is grounded in Mexican rather than U.S. culture.
The humour in this movie is derived from its characters, situations, and from some well executed slap-stick stunts. Anyone familiar with Lucha Libre will find this movie entertaining because it pokes a little fun at this sport but in a manner that someone who is part of that culture might. Meaning, it does so with love and respect.
I found it heart-warming and amusing. I am Canadian and a fan of Mexican culture, people, and the country. Jack Black does a passable Mexican accent, but even that contributes to the humour in this movie.
I believe that this movie would appeal more to those who have an affection for the Mexican culture and its people. Even though the movie is in English, some of the humour can be found in the Spanish that is presented to add to the atmosphere and make it feel more authentic. An example would be the priest who is saying mass while Ignacio (Jack Black) is sketching/planning/dreaming about his Lucha Libre suit.
His letter to Sister Encarnacion (no spoiler) demonstrates the fine art of exaggeration that is at the soul of this amusing little movie.
NOTE: Canadian spellings used throughout.
Soft Deceit (1994)
I saw this movie too!
The movie is a Canadian production, and more of an indie production than a polished Hollywood production. That is to say, the budget wasn't there. Some may agree that this makes the movie more interesting, while others will certainly disagree.
I liked the ending. I will NOT reveal what happened, so as not to spoil it for those who haven't seen it.
There is a steamy sex scene that should hold your attention. Not much bare skin is revealed, but there is no doubt as to what is happening.
I must point out that the dialog seems forced and unnatural much of the time, but I stayed with this movie until the end, and I'm glad I did. Thanks IFC for daring to show movies that wouldn't otherwise be shown on the small screen.
Rubí (2004)
Rubi, as beautiful as she is ambitious (greedy, selfish, manipulative)
Produced in Mexico, this telenovela (short novel adapted for television) is presented entirely in Spanish, without subtitles. Even though I understand Spanish, I think that's a shame because many English speakers would love this soap opera. I introduced it to some my English speaking friends, and they loved it. The only problem being the lack of sub-titles.
The characters immediately charm you. There is no more attractive cast appearing in any soap opera or telenovela anywhere.
The plot is less formulated than other telenovelas, resulting in a few surprises and twists that even the most seasoned enthusiast won't anticipate. The scenery is gorgeous too featuring Cancun and its fabulous beaches.
There is an element of comic relief provided by the Loreto character, (as portrayed by Miguel Pizarro), a gay fashion designer, and grand confidant of Rubi. He is famous for his comments that always begin with "Rubi, tan bella como..." meaning "Rubi, as beautiful as she is..." followed by an observation such as... ambitious or... desperate, etc. His infamous lines always end a scene in which Rubi shows her true colours, and not the beautiful and kind face she shows to others, in order to manipulate them.
Rubi really is a selfish, two-faced woman but, as portrayed by Barbara Mori, you really can't hate her, even when she truly deserves it.
I have watched many a telenovela from beginning to end, and this one is my favourite. I was a little disturbed by the last episode, but perhaps that's what makes this telenovela so good. My second favourite it "Amor Real".