Drama/Mex

Drama/Mex **1/2

Directed by Gerardo Naranjo
Written by Gerardo Naranjo

Starring:
Fernando Becerril as Jaime
Juan Pablo Castaneda as Gonzalo
Diana Garcia as Fernanda
Martha Claudia Moreno as Mama Yhahaira
Miriana Moro as Tigrillo
Emilio Valdés as Chano Cuerpiperro

92 Minutes(Not Rated-Sex, Nudity, Language, Violence)
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The biggest problem with "Drama/Mex" is that is isn't really about anything, so much as just another 'interconnected character film" in the style of "Babel" and "Amores Perros." However, instead of working with a giant canvas like Robert Altman would do, Gerardo Naranjo's screenplay is much more intimate, focusing on a select few, and sticking with a ninety minute running time. And you would think that with a little amount of characters to keep track of, you may care more about them and become a little more invested in their lives. This is not the case, and although it is entertaining, and the dialogue is well written, "Drama/Mex" does not really have any ultimate point, which can only go so far.

"Drama/Mex" tells two stories. The first one involves Fernanda and Chano. The two of them went out once upon a time until Chano stole money from her father and then vanished. Chano does return and wants to get back with Fer, but she calls him a pig. That is until he attacks her, somewhat rapes her even though she is very much interested, and then the two of them plan to run off together. Everything seems alright for the two of them until her boyfriend's friends spot the two of them in a passionate moment, and her boyfriend is not too keen on handing her over. The second story begins with Gonzalo who, while at his office, pushes his computer off the desk, and then proceeds to spit on his boss's desk. He goes home, takes some money and a gun, and goes out. He gets a hotel room with the intention of killing himself, until he meets a first time prostitute who tries to bed him. The two of them go out for the evening, with him not knowing that she has taken his wallet.

Now to say that the two stories intertwine is very loose-the two stories merge briefly. At one point, Gonzalo can see Fer on the beach taking a walk and crying, and then there is another moment where the characters cross paths, but that's about it. There seems to be a theme of loneliness across all the characters, but "Drama/Mex" does not have enough substance to be worthwhile. The script is pretty mint, with great dialogue that does hold your attention during the character conversations. The shots have a real gritty feel to them, and its shot in 35mm, which makes the picture only cover about half the screen. The bottom black is all reserved for subtitles, so there is no reason why you should miss any words. I would recommend "Drama/Mex" for its good script, good performances, and great cinematography, but it certainly won't remain in your head for very long after you leave. It's rather a pointless exercise, but an entertaining one.