When you think it can't get any worse, it does. Although not much is expected of this film to begin with, Nacho Libre takes it to a whole new level and belly flops on its own parade; proving that a cute story with potential combined with a well established actor, may not always manifest itself with flying colors.
Ignacio (Jack Black) is carrying out the lord's work at an orphanage located in Mexico. During his youth, he would fantasize about being the greatest luchador in Mexico and how extravagant and illustrious his life would be to the people of his land. As years go by, Ignacio has grown older and is still living at the monastery which was his home since childhood. Working as the cook to feed the miserable orphans, he gets no gratitude for his work -- taking into account that he can't cook -- and wonders what path he should take to finally fulfill his childhood dream. A rather attractive nun, Encarnacion, comes to live at the monastery and Ignacio is enamored by her kindness and appearance, falling head over heels for her. She sees the top luchadors as people who aren't thinking about contributing to their community and doing good deeds for others, but money-hoarding narcissists who are complacent with their riches and good fortune. Ignacio now finds himself at odds with his ambitions and the woman who sees them as unimportant desires of the superficial mind, but is still determined to work hard and succeed in his endeavors while trying to find a cause to fight for. Along the way to glory, he meets his childhood idol and a new friend although he never tastes victory. Despite getting paid for his efforts, Ignacio wonders if his dream is even possible to fulfill, but all he needs to realize is the power he possesses when he fights, and how it gives hope to those who thought they were left behind. The question is, will his time of enlightenment come at the right moment, and will he finally find a cause to fight for in order to secure the woman of his dreams as well as his own sense of accomplishment and happiness?
The story initially had a lot of potential if you read the overall premise of it, but since you have Jack Black to fill the shoes of the main role as well as incorporate the story into a slapstick-centered jumble for kids' amusement, this is where the tide recedes. I loved his role in School of Rock and commend him for attempting to portray an important message during the span of his film, but it turns out to be an unorganized, brittle wreck that distracts from the main objective of the picture. The lighting is at times sickening, with its dark yellow tinge but is at times beneficial to portray the decadence in the surroundings of the main characters. The acting seemed forced, awkward and downright unprofessional. Young kids, especially boys, will definitely get a kick out of this movie but otherwise, I don't imagine who else would want to see this unless it's with their kids. I didn't find the comedy amusing or funny at all and it was difficult to navigate the film for instances of being able to laugh. You're kept guessing if you should laugh or shouldn't and I think that creates as much of a distraction as the tight pants Jack Black had to wear for the role. Other supporting characters appear morbid and unappealing no matter what their purpose in the film is and quite honestly, detract from the story in many ways as an unnecessary addition to the appearance of Jack Black. I could go on and on but let's get to the message of the film.
It is meant to be inspirational and a much-needed message to children about following your dreams despite the many obstacles and failures that hinder you along the way. It does accomplish this to some extent, even despite the many distractions in the screenplay and the pointless scenes that are meant to be funny, although they don't seem that way. I do however take off my hat to Jack Black because of his continuous efforts to produce and be part of films which are not only entertaining for children but beneficial for their self-esteem. Many kids are faced with all kinds of problems and disabilities in life, and everyone needs a fleck of hope in their life to boost their disposition and ultimately their chances at succeeding in whatever their goals may be.
It also sends a good message about fighting for something that you believe in which will benefit others, as opposed to something which you think will only make you happy. As much of a cliché as it is, you always feel better doing something which will aid someone in need and I think the world will become a much better place once we realize this fundamental truth.
Another interesting facet about this film is the way the luchadors are portrayed. They are tall, strong men with enormous egos and complete inconsideration for others who aren't as grandiose as them in stature or accomplishments. In a way, this notion sheds light on the kind of people we deem note-worthy and illustrious in our society. From film stars to mainstream musicians, this particular group of people who we deem as fine specimens because of their wealth, talent, and presence in magazines are at times some of the nastiest people out there. Don't get me wrong, there are many decent, lovely and caring people who choose to have a career in these industries but there are definitely some who let the fame and fortune aspect of their career consume them and blind them from the real world. They fly so high up, they never want to come down and eventually, see themselves as these invincible beings who don't deserve to surround themselves with the ordinary folks, thinking they could find a loophole through all of their problems whether they be legal or personal. And the average joe is completely hypnotized by their presence, wanting to look like them or even get into the profession which makes them so well-know. It's our hunger for success and approval which drives us but when it comes to the kinds of professions which lead to scrutiny by everyone and anyone, where at times, any move or action might define your career, you start to overlook the kind of field you want to enter. If you are indeed passionate about your chosen profession and you know it could become a public spectacle, you should always have people surrounding you who you love and care about, as well as prepping yourself to not get caught up in it all and suddenly grow wings.
Although the symbolism and allegories presented are worth noting, the film is still rather jumbled up and unappealing. Actually based on a true story, I think this story could've been turned into a great dramatic piece with a more mature demographic in mind. The music and scenery, however, is very serene and memorable but otherwise the rest of the film is disappointing. You can't win every game you play, but at least they tried, and it does make for an amusing time although in retrospective, a bit of a waste. Arios, amigos!
No comments:
Post a Comment