Our take
Ever wondered how much your life will change when faced with the reality that death is about to come? That’s normal, and not nearly as life-altering as being told you only have a few more moments to live. Because of a terminal illness, Uxbal (Javier Bardem) is driven to this situation and tries to right his wrongs in the wake of modern Barcelona. This melodrama is supercharged by Bardem’s unearthly performance as the story’s only hero, demonstrating the selfless love of a destroyed and dying father to his children – paired with cinematography unlike any other, this film is exceptionally beautiful. Directed by González Iñárritu’ (Babel, Birdman, The Revenant).
What it won
Other
1 nom
The story
This is a story of a man in free fall. On the road to redemption, darkness lights his way. Connected with the afterlife, Uxbal is a tragic hero and father of two who's sensing the danger of death. He struggles with a tainted reality and a fate that works against him in order to forgive, for love, and forever.
Elsewhere
"The movie's mood might well have proved unendurable were it not for the proud and sympathetic presence of Bardem."
— Anthony Lane
"This elegiac fable has such compassion and moral purpose that it's possible - necessary, perhaps - to forgive its lapses into clich and contrivance."
— Matt Bochenski
The details
Who picked it
Christina Hale is a contributing writer at A Good Movie to Watch, focused on highlighting overlooked films and shows across the major streaming platforms. Her reviews emphasize craft and storytelling over algorithmic popularity.
One of the best movies I have ever seen. This movie is exceptionally good that it depicts the true love between father and kids. Cried it end of the movie because life is not easy and you gotta go through the hell to be in a heaven.