The Meaning of J

Erase una vez en el Caribe (2023) Jean Pablo Deliz Dávila       Erase una vez en el Caribe (2023) is an ambitious film to behold whose efforts should not be ignored by the general public. It presents a glimpse into a bright future for Puerto Rican cinema, but unfortunately, it falls short. Erase una vez en el Caribe (2023) underwhelms with an overlong runtime, a dull protagonist, unengaging action sequences, and strict adherence to its genre influences. The film may have the best production design and look of any Puerto Rican film I've seen, and yet, it's not a great movie. It's neither good nor bad, instead falling into a middle ground between the two categories.   Érase una Vez en el Caribe (2023) is a samurai Western epic written and directed by Ray Figueroa and starring Héctor Aníbal as a machete-wielding warrior named Encarnación. He is a peasant in early 20th-century Puerto Rico, living in a modest home by the fields with his wife, Pura (Essined Apon...

Broche de Oro (2012) Jean Pablo Deliz Dávila      Broche de Oro (2012) is a well-meaning but ultimately forgettable comedy-drama that can't balance its comedic moments with its dramatic undertones. It's a shame because the three main leads are fun to watch and have great chemistry. However, they're overshadowed by a terrible script that doesn't know how to make the most of its dramatic undertones. It's an inoffensive movie, never overstaying its welcome or becoming obnoxious. But you won't remember it long after it's concluded.  Broche de Oro (2012) is a Puerto Rican comedy film written and directed by Raúl Marchand Sánchez, starring Jacobo Morales as the main character, Rafael. Rafael lives in a Catholic retirement home with his two friends, Anselmo (Adrian Garcia) and Pablo (Diego de la Texera). Rafael is an aging retiree who yearns to spend time with his grandson Carlos (Luis Omar O'Farrill) but cannot leave the home. One night, he and his friends esc...