|
Reviews of Recent Independent, Foreign, & Documentary Films in Theaters and DVD/Home Video
UNDERTOW
The story unfolds against the idyllic backdrop of the sun kissed Peruvian surf. It could perhaps be set in any small town. Not to say that the natural beauty of the setting isn’t absolutely breathtaking, or that the imagery of a Catholic seaside fishing village doesn’t add to the film’s amazing richness, but this film feels almost like a fable. Miguel and Santiago are the archetypal star-crossed lovers in a world that won’t readily accept them. The wonderful performances, a captivating plot, and the enormous concepts intelligently tell a universal story of the trials faced not only by secret lovers but also by anyone who dares to take the risk of falling in love. Cristian Mercado’s performance as the tormented central figure is on my list for the best of the year. His every move is captivating. Miguel struggles with emotions as big as love and guilt, yet he remains clearheaded, even optimistic. It’s rare to see as defined an emotional journey as Mercado’s in a story as rich as this one. Miguel attempts to do right
with his lover, with his family, and even with God, a combination that
doesn’t provide him with an easy set of decisions to make. Cheating on
his pregnant wife doesn’t feel right, but neither does denying his true
self. The feeling of relief after Santiago’s death—perhaps now he can
resume his “normal” life again—only adds to the guilt he already bears
for always keeping that love hidden. This excellent film will most
certainly stir very real feelings within you, but it’ll give you plenty
to think about as well. Michael Lee
|
In a tiny oceanfront community
in northern Peru, homosexual affairs are held, as a rule, in secret.
Death has a way of giving away secrets, though, and when one of the gay
lovers drowns in the sea, the survivor bears not only a painful loss,
but must face the social consequences, too. Director Javier Fuentes-León
adds another layer of complexity in Undertow. Miguel (Cristian
Mercado), who is expecting a child with his wife Mariela (Tatiana
Astengo), immediately begins to see the ghost of his lover, Santiago (Manolo
Cardona). Santiago appears only to Miguel, refusing to ascend to the
afterlife, needing first for Miguel to come to terms with their
clandestine relationship.