Angel, la Diva y Yo

Angel, la Diva y Yo is a stirring Argentine drama film from 1999 that offers a fascinating blend of realistic and surrealistic elements. Directed by Pablo Nisenson and featuring a strong cast consisting of Pepe Soriano, Esther Goris, and Boy Olmi, this film explores the complexities of life, success, dreams, and human relationships in a unique and engrossing manner.

The narrative of the movie kicks off with its protagonist Rodolfo Cano (portrayed by Pepe Soriano), a man who leads a mundane and monotonous life working as a seller of lottery tickets. Rodolfo's daily routine is devoid of excitement or fulfillment, making him feel the stagnancy of his existence. In stark contrast to Rodolfo’s ordinary life stands the character of Maria Romano (played by Esther Goris), famous for her dazzling opera performances and irresistible charm. She is a diva in the true sense of the word, loved by all, and living a life of glitz and glamour.

In a fortunate twist of fate, Rodolfo wins the very lottery that he sells, leading to a radical transition in his life as he suddenly finds himself surrounded by wealth and luxury. However, this unexpected affluence instead brings forth an existential crisis within Rodolfo, making him question the true meaning of happiness and purpose in life.

While trying to navigate through his newly-gained wealth and social status, Rodolfo crosses paths with Maria Romano, who becomes a symbol of aspiration for Rodolfo. Intrigued and captivated by Maria’s charisma and success, Rodolfo starts to imagine himself in her shoes. He envisions a life far from his own, filled with fame, passion, and admiration - a life that Maria lives. This dynamic sets an intriguing premise for the narrative, as it delves deeper into the realms of human desires and ambitions.

As these two disparate worlds begin to intertwine, Rodolfo starts experiencing bizarre and inexplicable events. The line between reality and fantasy becomes blurred as an imaginary friend named Angel (essayed by Boy Olmi), starts to frequent his life, offering him pieces of advice and sparking philosophical discourse. Angel is depicted as a surreal figure that oscillates between being a mere figment of Rodolfo's imagination and an otherworldly presence.

Moreover, as the story unfolds, the movie intriguingly combines elements of magical realism and intense human emotions, maintaining an enigmatic and dream-like aesthetic throughout. Themes of self-discovery, existentialism, and the quest for happiness are intricaily intertwined within the narrative, making the movie a compelling and thought-provoking watch.

The characters are well etched and developed, with Pepe Soriano masterfully portraying the everyman in Rodolfo who gets thrust into a world of untold riches and fame. Esther Goris sheds light on the life of a diva and her world of glamour and stardom with finesse and brilliance. Boy Olmi, as the imaginary friend Angel, adds an interesting facet to the movie’s narrative as he beautifully switches between being an adviser, a mentor, and a friend to Rodolfo.

Moreover, the cinematography by Esteban Sapir effectively captures the stark contrast between Rodolfo's mundane existence and the vibrant world of Maria the opera singer. The music by Litto Nebbia beautifully complements the narrative, making every scene more evocative and impactful.

With its eclectic mix of reality, dreams, and philosophy, Angel, la Diva y Yo dives into the human psyche to dissect the concepts of happiness and success. This film is a captivating journey that envelopes viewers with its eloquent storytelling, remarkable character development, and intriguing plot.

In summation, Angel, la Diva y Yo is an exceptional Argentinian film from the late ‘90s that continues to captivate audiences with its fresh perspective and a compelling narrative that surpasses the constraints of time and geography. Whether you are an avid fan of cinema, or just seeking a unique cinematic experience, this film makes for a captivating and rewarding watch.