Before We Say Goodbye

Before We Say Goodbye is a modern portrayal of a Hispanic family coping with the realities of life and death. Although the scenario is based on a Hispanic viewpoint, any family can relate to one or more of the situations that take place throughout the film: from coping with the death of a loved one, to marriage and financial problems, to not agreeing with one's family values or religions, or just trying to be accepted as oneself amongst a family unit.

The story is told through Ramona, the steadfast mother, who continues to have faith that a miracle is possible to save Carlos (her dying husband) despite all odds. As we journey with her in her quest, we also experience what other members of the family are going through in their own lives and in their relation to Ramona and Carlos.

Although Ramona doesn't quite end up getting the miracle she expects, the story has an uplifting finale that leaves her (and us) with an undeniable affirmation of hope and empowering strength to go on. This is an emotionally moving film that reminds us we all have different problems and beliefs in life, but things usually work out… just as they are meant to, which at times, in itself, can be a phenomenon perceived as a miracle.

A Heartfelt movie. Paul Davids (Director) pulls the emotional strings of the heart with this inspirational film. A work of art showing the true values of family and life in the Hispanic culture. Few movies take you into the lives of Hispanics like this one does. A very enjoyable film to watch. The character development was well thought out and applied in this film. Some of the characters were well portrayed in the film while a couple lacked development. Story line was easy to follow but wasn't predictable, a few twists kept it enjoyable to watch. The scenery and locations of the film were a nice change from mainstream Hollywood -- it gave the film that sense of realism that is lacking in so many big budget films. Shots in the Basilica of the Virgin of Guadalupe in Mexico were spectacular.

Universal appeal, deeply moving, Before We Say Goodbye is a film depicting a Hispanic family but honestly, it reflects all families; exposing both their strengths and their weaknesses. Paul Davids has woven a rich experience by keeping the filming simple and authentic. The actors come across real characters, and the story will catch you and hold you from the first scene till the last, as it asks and gently answers the question, "What is a modern miracle, and how does it compare with miracle's of old?" The musical soundtrack is superb, The story is touching. It will make you laugh and cry and sometimes it will make you do both at once. I haven't met anyone who has seen it that didn't appreciate this rare gem of an independent film! Paul Davids and the entire cast and crew is to be congratulated. This is what independent film is really about. Put Before We Say Goodbye on your must see list. It has been held over again and again at my local theater

I recently attended a private screening of this film, and found it to be very engaging and involving subject matter. I don't normally see these sort of movies, but upon viewing the trailer, I just had to see the film! Also, as a non-Catholic protestant, I did not find the story to be done from my point of view, but it was well done, regardless. Great cast, acting, direction, script, story, use of production values, locations, cinematography, with warm lighting and a colorful scenic backdrop for the story. And the theme music is memorable, with a good music score. I'm looking forward to seeing this movie again when it is in general release! This film should be a great success! I congratulate Paul Davids and Patricia Crespin!

There are few very good movies that take us into the Hispanic-American world of the American Southwest. One of them is Robert Redford's The Milagro Beanfield War and a second is the newly completed Before We Say Goodbye, directed by Paul Davids. The latter movie is less fanciful then Redford's, and more deeply touching. It takes us into the life of a real family in Albuquerque building atmosphere and situation and character slowly so that we get to know and care about these people. The film is full of laughs, but also deep sadness. One takes away a detailed and nuanced sense of the interior life of a Catholic Hispanic family with all its complexity. There are true-believing Catholics, lukewarm believers, and even one atheist. Problems range from soap-opera-ish extramarital affairs to academic career problems in archaeological research. The camera work masterfully takes you inside the homes of these people. It lets you feel their humble warmth and particular visual flavor. This is a movie that can be watched repeatedly and enjoyed more every time, much as can Redford's Milagro Beanfield War. This is the best sign of a great movie. One is reminded of It's A Wonderful Life. But in this case it's a Hispanic life. This movie places a new gem in the crown of typically American cinema.