Something of a retro reciprocation and homage to Woody Allen’s Vicky Cristina Barcelona, THE UNEXECTED LIFE is a devilishly entertaining romantic comedy starring two of Spain’s finest character actors Javier Cámara (Living is Easy with Eyes Closed, Talk To Her) and Raúl Arévalo (Marshland)).
Juanito (Cámara) lives in New York City working as an actor. He makes money on the side as a waiter and runs Spanish cooking classes to culture-hungry locals despite having no experience in the kitchen whatsoever. But hey, he’s an actor and an exotic, how hard can it be?!
When his estranged cousin Primo (Arévalo) lands on his doorstep, Juanito is unimpressed, but attempts to take it in his stride. Over the course of the following weeks, their obvious differences create an Odd Couple dynamic, finally bonding over paella.
A graduate of the city’s Tisch School of the Arts film programme, helmer Jorge Torregrossa clearly has an edifice complex regarding New York City. The city itself is a towering character as its more glorious and recognisable locations are presented via sweeping shots of Manhattan across the water, upward views of skyscrapers, the bright lights of the theatre district, and beautiful skyscapes from romantic rooftops.
Torregrossa is clearly a Woody Allen fan – spot the flattery framed shot of the iconic Manhattan poster image – and I’m sure Woody would find enjoyment in the escapades of these escapees from Espana.
The casting of Tammy Blanchard is another Woody character echo – indeed Mr. Allen cast her in Blue Jasmin – in the role of Jojo, a kooky seamstress attached to the theatre Jaunito plies his repertory trade.
And if there is any doubt that this film is a loveletter to the esteemed creator of movies like Manhattan and Annie Hall, Lucio Godoy and Federico Jusid’s score is a pastiche – a rather good one – of Gershwin’s music…
Derivative yes, but when it’s done this charmingly it flatters both source and audience.
THE UNEXPECTED LIFE is on show at the Spanish Film Festival from now till May 10 at Palace Verona, Paddington and Palace Norton Street, Leichardt. For more information in regards to the Festival visit http://www.spanishfilmfestival.com