Although we more or less knew what to expect from this story, Instructions Not Included manages to adapt quite well to a Spanish audience. Marina Seresesky directs with a steady hand, crafting a family comedy that blends lighthearted humor with a touch of tear-jerking drama, without falling too much into excess.
The cast is one of its biggest strengths. You can tell there's solid actor direction, and several strong performers manage to lift scenes that otherwise might have felt too predictable. It's not a movie that tries to revolutionize the genre, but it does succeed in hitting the emotional beats and drawing some genuine smiles.
This second retelling of the original Derbez story stays true to its spirit, adding just the right local flavor. It might not surprise you - nor does it really try to - but as a family film, it gets the job done without any major issues.
A movie that, without offering anything groundbreaking, knows how to win over the hearts of those looking for something simple, well-crafted, and heartfelt.
