Sabrina Sauceda

This movie was a major disappointment. We only made it halfway through before exchanging bewildered glances and asking, "Do you really like this?" It turns out we were both quietly enduring it, thinking we were doing each other a favor. From the writing to the cast's delivery, everything felt incredibly lazy. The story centers around a stereotypical rich, bratty woman who has everything yet can't grow up or appreciate her privileged lifestyle. Her friends, people of color, are reduced to mere sidekicks who she ignores while fixating on her own problems. This trope is not only tired but also problematic. Zac Efron's performance was cringe-worthy at best, and his facial expressions, along with Nicole's, were distractingly overdone. It begs the question: who was responsible for casting? While I can imagine an older audience might appreciate the attempt to tell a passionate love story involving an older woman rediscovering romance, the execution was embarrassing. The film failed to convey any genuine emotion or depth. If I were to recast this movie, I would choose Millie Bobby Brown as the main character and Alicia Silverstone as her naturally aged mother. For the love interest, actors like Adam Driver or Alexander Skarsgård would bring the necessary goofiness and troubled charm, making the character more relatable and believable. I want to emphasize that I don't believe the actors themselves are bad. Rather, it seems the creators forced this film into existence for a quick payday, sacrificing quality in the process. I've seen more depth and genuine emotion in a single episode of "Bluey." This movie is not worth your time. There are far better options out there that offer real storytelling and character development.

"Under The Bridge" is an exceptional limited series that tells its story with remarkable impartiality, giving depth to both the victims and the perpetrators. The portrayal of Reena's family is especially noteworthy, capturing the universal struggles of teenage rebellion and the efforts of parents to ensure their children's well-being, regardless of cultural background. The series comes across as highly realistic, depicting common familial issues that resonate with many. I'm grateful for the respectful manner in which Reena's story was shared, serving as a poignant warning for girls who might be too trusting or seek friendships in the wrong places.

In the realm of cinema, it's not often that an actor's performance transcends the screen and touches the heart, but Sofia Vergara's portrayal of Griselda in this remarkable piece achieves just that. Vergara's embodiment of the character was not only believable but profoundly moving, capturing the essence of Griselda's complex nature with finesse. Through Vergara's portrayal, viewers can truly perceive the multifaceted dimensions of Griselda, from her fierce maternal instincts to her darker, more vulnerable facets. It's acknowledged that Griselda's real-life son, Michael, expressed some reservations about the depiction, which is both valid and understandable. Drawing from a personal standpoint, having experienced parental loss and the turbulence of emotional and paranoid maternal behavior, I found the narrative respectful and thoughtfully executed. The filmmakers' efforts to humanize Griselda, showcasing her personal interests and deep love for her children, added layers to her character that went beyond the notorious public persona. Despite her flaws, the portrayal of Griselda as a fiercely protective mother resonates universally, striking a chord with anyone who recognizes the complexities of maternal love. A standout aspect of the film was its authentic representation of Spanish-speaking characters. The use of genuine Spanish dialogue and the natural flow of the accent-rich banter not only enhanced the authenticity of the story but also enriched the cultural texture of the film. This element particularly resonated with me, evoking nostalgic memories of childhood and contributing to the film's immersive experience. While the necessity of subtitles posed a challenge for some viewers, including my significant other, this linguistic authenticity is a vital aspect of storytelling that I fervently hope to see more of in future projects. Looking forward, I eagerly anticipate more ventures involving Sofia Vergara and her team. Their ability to bring depth and realism to their characters, combined with a commitment to cultural authenticity, sets a high standard for future Netflix originals and spinoffs. While this film excels in many aspects, further exploration of the characters' backgrounds and motivations could provide an even richer narrative tapestry. Moreover, integrating various perspectives and delving deeper into the socio-political context of Griselda's era could enhance the storytelling, offering viewers a more comprehensive understanding of the characters' actions and choices. In conclusion, Sofia Vergara's portrayal of Griselda is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft. The film stands as a powerful, respectful, and deeply engaging exploration of a complex woman, made all the more captivating through its authentic cultural representation and emotional depth. It sets a benchmark for character-driven storytelling and cultural authenticity in cinema, leaving a lasting impression and a yearning for more works of such caliber.

Movie Review: The Color Purple (2023) - A Musical Misstep? The 2023 remake of "The Color Purple" arrives with grand ambitions but, regrettably, falls short of capturing the essence that made the original a revered classic. This adaptation takes a bold, albeit misguided, step in reimagining the harrowing tale as a musical, a decision that, from my perspective, dilutes the gravity of its themes. At its core, "The Color Purple" narrates the life of Celie, a woman subjected to relentless abuse. The original film, with its unflinching portrayal of her struggles, invited viewers to empathize deeply with Celie, feeling her pain, rooting for her moments of triumph, and reflecting on the injustices she endured. However, the 2023 remake's choice to intersperse this narrative with musical numbers leads to a jarring disconnect. The transition from scenes depicting severe abuse to upbeat, dance-filled musical interludes feels uncomfortably abrupt. This stylistic choice seems to gloss over the profound trauma of the characters, especially Celie, reducing the impact of their experiences. The original's power lay in its ability to confront and unsettle, forcing viewers to reckon with the characters' realities. In contrast, the remake's musical format appears to brush past these moments, opting for a tone that doesn't fully resonate with the story's depth. Moreover, the film misses significant opportunities to enrich the narrative by diving deeper into the characters' inner lives and relationships. For instance, exploring Celie's internal world, her conversations with her sister about their shared trauma, and her aspirations could have added layers of depth and emotional resonance. Similarly, delving into Miss Sofia's life, particularly her time in prison, would have offered a richer portrayal of her character and circumstances. While the visuals in the remake are undeniably stunning, showcasing a vibrant palette and dynamic cinematography, they cannot compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The essence of "The Color Purple" is its story and the emotional journey it takes its audience on — a journey that should leave viewers moved, reflective, and perhaps changed. Unfortunately, the 2023 musical version, despite its visual appeal and energetic performances, seems to prioritize spectacle over substance, thereby missing the mark on delivering the profound emotional and societal commentary that defined the original. In conclusion, while the remake of "The Color Purple" is a commendable attempt at innovation, it inadvertently underscores the challenge of adapting such a deeply impactful story into a musical format. It serves as a reminder that some narratives wield their greatest power through quiet intensity and raw, unvarnished truth, rather than through the spectacle of song and dance.