La vida mancha has charm. It has a strong, funny and delightful, yet dramatic script. It has a director that knows how to tell a story and actors who know how to incarnate its characters.
We see here a true breakthrough performance from equally beautiful and talented Zay Nuba, great interplay between Jose Coronado and Juan Sanz, and remarkable presence from the two young actors, Yohana Cobo and Sandro Polo.
What makes this film succeed beyond the nice script and good acting, however, is director Enrique Urbizu's ability to create a family that looks real, that feels authentic, and moreover that you want to be part of. The love is palpable in the air as we see them go through their day to day activities and occasional perils. It brought to mind a utopic closeness almost only achieved in dreams, but that undeniable feel so real and so right. Even the babysitter really felt part of the family and there were enough loving kisses for everyone. This closeness is also what ultimately makes this movie transcend. Is there such a thing as too much closeness? What is a long-lost brother truly supposed to do after his return? How is his dejected brother's family supposed to accept him in their lives?
We see everyone's drives and desires beneath the surface. We see lies and we see the truth. We see trust, friendship and secrecy. We see redemption and relapse. So in the end will it all collapse? Watch and enjoy this life collage and its tempered tapestry.
Rating: 8/10
