Antes que Eu Me Esqueça

Before I forget (Antes Que Eu Me Esqueça) is true gem of Brazilian cinema. This film smartly blends the exploration of a strained and complex family dynamic in the face of changes that cannot be ignored with commentary on the lives of a part of society (the elderly) that is often ignored.

Through the story of Polidoro, his children, and their efforts to reconnect long lost connections, Before I Forget expertly weaves a tale of growth in the face of decline. Both visually and in its prose, Before I forget tells a story that spans cultural boundaries.

A hidden gem! Beautiful! Touching! Sweet! One of the best actings I've seen in a non-action Brazilian film! Kuddos to everyone involved in this.

The acting, especially by Leticia Isnard as Bia, and by de Abreu as Polidoro, is the saving grace in ANTES QUE EU ME ESQUEÇA.

Director Arakilian tries hard to be clever, and is aided by some competent camera work, but fails, especially toward the end of the movie, which comes across as increasingly schmaltzy and emotionally dishonest.

This is the type of movie that I can't get tired of watching. I don't know if somehow I feel related to it but watching it touched me profoundly. It's a very realistic story that can happen to anyone but told in a very poetic way with some touchs of comedy. The background is Copacabana but for sure can be at any neighborhood around the globe.

Everything in this film is about dignity. From the highly creative screenplay, to casting, light handed acting, delicate directing and editing. After watching it one can restart believing in humanity.