Torremolinos 73

An amusing but insubstantial comedy about a door-to-door encyclopedia salesman whose firm 'diversifies' into encyclopedias on sexuality and accompanying videos. Funny enough, with acutely observed and realistic characters, but it needed something more in the second half to make it worth the time.

When I saw the poster of "Torremolinos 73" at my favorite movie theater, it was clear: I had to see that movie.

I expected 90 minutes of bursting out laughing. Let's say, that wasn't exactly the case.

It sure has its moments of incredible comedy but, surprisingly, also moments of real tragedy and drama. I was quite stunned.

In the end, the story is absolutely original, I wouldn't know about anything similar, the actors all do a great job, the dialog is mostly very nice and all this ends up in a fine little piece of entertainment.

Not perfect, not amazing, but amusing and entertaining? Definitely!

"Torremolinos 73" starts out looking like just another dreary dirge about the down-on-his-luck salesman whose soul is being crushed by the emptiness of his existence. Alfredo is struggling to provide for his wife, but failing. Door-to-door sales are being phased out.

Not to worry--his employer has an alternate plan. They will produce "scientific" films about Spanish reproduction customs for sales in Scandinavia.

I don't want to relate any more of the action, but the story turns into a light-hearted comedy about a married couple who truly love each other. By following an odd pathway--spurred by their need for money--they manage to achieve what each wants from life.

Some of the best touches are the use of iconic cinematic images in the filming of the titular film within this film.

Though some reviewers focus on political commentary within the film, this film can be enjoyed on a purely comedic level. Javier Camera, who plays Alfredo, is an affable everyman. Candela Pena, as his wife Carmen, is an unassuming woman who longs for the simple things in life. Together they are a likable couple whose happiness springs from their love for each other.

I found this to be a captivating and entertaining movie - great pains were taken to reproduce that 70's look and feel and it is totally convincing. While seemingly limited in their ambitions, the main characters are nevertheless sympathetic and there are some quirky sidekicks whose characters are fleshed out enough to be entertaining as well - everyone from the landlady, the boss, to the friend who drives. I also found myself seriously enjoying the director's X-rated version of an Ingmar Bergman film over the actual film it self. The woman doesn't have much ambition aside from being "womanly" but it is based on a true incident and hey it was the 70's in Spain.

Spanish Cinema has a fairly different wave and it is pleasant to see such movies coming from the new directors with different content & storytelling.

"Torremolinos 73" is an honest movie, as a débutant Pablo Berger has come up with something amusing and solemn.

Set in 1973, an encyclopedia salesman Alfredo who sells it door-by door is not able to meet his ends. He has been given only an alternative by his chief – to make adult movies with wife Carmen or leave the company. After some dithering, they reluctantly accept the proposal and it starts the journey of ecstasy & agony.

Using fade colors, it gives a feel of 70's with some good dialogs and funny situations. Javier Cámara is good as a Bergman's admirer (camera Buff), Candela Peña is incredible as a timid person having some desires to fulfill.

Recommended

7.5/10