El Piedra

The movie is focused in three parallel topics: Boxing, Cartagena City (Colombia) and the relationship between father and son. About the first topic, the movie is very interesting for boxing-lovers or for somebody with interest to learn about this sport and how it may work in Colombia. Some critics (in Spanish) said that the fights are not convincing, but we liked them enough. In fact fighting scenes are rather scarce, but sufficient for stating the points of the movie plot. About the second topic, Cartagena city, the movie shows the city as almost no one ever did: the Cartagena where tourism doesn't exist and the 'real life of the Cartagenian people'; very remarkable this approach. Finally, the main conflict of the movie is the relationship between the starring character (El Piedra) and his 'new' teenager son; the human face of the movie. In general, this movie is worthy to watch and enjoy. It's not Hollywood, so, the story and the end are a real surprise. PS: some critics and reviews (in Spanish) analyse about a 'social class conflict' during the movie, however this topic is barely addressed ...only in ONE scene.

I was expecting the film to be more about Cartegana city and the lifestyle. I was disappointed when most of the movie shot within a house and random streets.

Even as a film, it was slow paced and nothing much was happening. Art film lovers may love this film.

My only takeaway from the whole film was Arepa, a food item which I am about to try during my visit.