You probably know someone like Benito Lacuna (Alberto San Juan), a self centered, arrogant individual that all he cares about is his wobbling career as a trumpet musician in the big city. Well, not exactly in that description, but someone who care nothing else but himself. "Benny Lacun" as he fondly calls himself, is also a drunkard. He also wallows in nothingness, tagging along his long suffering girlfriend with him. After hearing the news of his father's failing health, he seems to be more concerned about his life in the big city, hesitant to visit. As soon as he mustered enough strength, he returns to his home town, and meets up with family and old friends. His brother Lalo (Julián Villagrán), makes a living making iron sculptures, and is now hitch to Benito's former flame, Nines (Emma Suárez). He strikes an unlikely friendship with Nines' daughter, Ainara, and Benito finally steps up and talk control over his meaningless existence as events turns for the worse.
The characters in Bajo Las Estrellas (Under the Stars) (2007) are despicable and feels disconnected with the rest of us. Nothing to like about at face value, yet director Félix Viscarret based from Fernando Aramburu's novel, slowly injects sympathy as the movie moves along this drama infused with comedy. In collaboration with TVE, (TV Español), it looks like a big budget TV production projected on screen. Simple and uncluttered, does not intrude in scenes of importance. Memorable scenes includes the first encounter of Benito and Ainara, how he desperately tries to communicate with the young girl, who has become a recluse. And Benito, as he walks along the lonely stretch of country road beneath the stars and glimmering twilight sky. The old man with the metal detector, whose constant search remains to be a mystery.
The film also depicts the power of family, and bond of brotherhood in times of need, longing for contentment and peace with one's self, which is universal. Yet, the discord is still there until the end, Nines admits, and we feel it too. Their lives will be a long journey of struggle and discoveries. San Juan's performance won him the 2007 Goya for Best Lead Actor (Mejor Actor Principal) and Best Adapted Screenplay (Mejor Guión Adaptado) for Félix Viscarret.
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7th Pelicula Pelikula "Es tu historia" Spanish Film Festival
October 1-12, 2008. Cinema 1, Greenbelt, Makati City, Philippines.
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