Abel (2010)

directed by Diego Luna

Abel is an fairly easy movie to digest. Although the plot is uncommon in some ways, it never alienates the audience. With some dark humor and a psychological background, the main message that is trying to be communicated is that of pure love, motherly love. In Abel, this love for a son goes far, to almost disturbing places. It's hard to decide if what happens is right or wrong, or if it's realistic or allegorical, but it's so intriguing, interesting and mysterious that the movie goes by very fast (it is also very short). It also has some very witty and entertaining moments that will make you get involved with most of the characters. 

Abelardo, the main character, does a great job when embodying an adult in a child's body. His inner fantasies and madness, as well as his brother's hyperactivity, plus his father's carelessness is complemented by the intuition and purity of his mother's behaviors (Luna lost his mother when he was a baby). The movie explores various subjects and moods in which the audience is invited to play along. 

  

Abel is a great proposal for Mexican modern cinema, a fresh change that is universally accessible. More movies like this should be made, nicely shot, neatly scripted and witty, exploring the psyche of the characters with well-thought mise-en-scenes. Abel is a great debut by successful actor and now director, Diego Luna, produced by John Malkovich and Gael Garcia Bernal.

Recommended
Rating: 7.5/10