Common Places

Common Places is a 2002 Spanish-Argentine drama film directed by the well-known Argentine filmmaker Adólfo Aristarain. This enthralling movie features poignant performances from established actors Federico Luppi, Mercedes Sampietro, and Arturo Puig. The film is a remarkable amalgamation of themes and emotions such as love, friendship, aging, and political beliefs, all presented through the lens of straightforward, folk wisdom.

The film is set in both Argentina and Spain. Luppi plays the role of Fernando Robles, a retired professor from Buenos Aires. Sampietro portrays Liliana Rovira, a widow, and Robles's partner from the last 25 years. Robles is compelled to leave his homeland Argentina due to the harsh economic reality the country is facing during the period. The two decide to emigrate to Madrid, Spain in search of better opportunities, where they must cope with the new life as they encounter various situations that test their relationship and beliefs.

Common Places is fundamentally a study of shared experience across space and time, focusing on the life experiences and how they shape our values, relationships, and our very being. The dialogue is quick-witted, full of thought-provoking lines that add depth to the character's identities and compel viewers to think not just about the narrative but also about the world that utility unfolds on the silver screen.

A distinctive feature of this film is its ability to capture the essence of contemporary Argentina with its economic difficulties and socio-political turmoil. The issues are brought out in a sublime yet powerful manner, not just as plot devices, but serving as critical drivers that shape the narrative and the characters' motivations. At the same time, the film portrays an honest image of the immigrant life in Spain, focusing on not just the struggle, but also the resilience, the constant adapting and grappling with a sense of displacement.

Federico Luppi gives a cherishing performance as Fernando, portraying a man trying to maintain his dignity in an increasingly demoralizing situation. Mercedes Sampietro complements him beautifully as Liliana, embodying a strong yet emotionally vulnerable woman who is struggling to find meaning in their new life. Arturo Puig also delivers a commendable performance, adding further depth to the film.

The screenplay by Aristarain and actress-scriptwriter Kathy Saavedra is one of the highlights of the movie. They brilliantly encapsulate the trials and tribulations of an aging couple navigating the realities of economic emigration, without resorting to needless sentimentality. The dialogues, which are incisive and tender in equal measures, are peppered with memorable lines that engage the audience and readily prompts discussions long after the film is over.

The cinematography by the celebrated director of photography, José Luis Alcaine, is another attribute contributing to the film's unique appeal. The film subtly captures the nuances of both Buenos Aires and Madrid, capturing the mood and ambiance of both cities brilliantly, offering viewers feels of nostalgia and melancholy vibes.

Common Places also stands out for its remarkable score, composed by Lucio Godoy, which significantly contributes to the film's emotional texture. The music is haunting yet unmistakably grounded in Latin American folk culture, echoing the film's themes and mirroring the characters' subjective experiences throughout their journey.

The film gracefully explores the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and the ever-changing geopolitical realities. It is a sentimental depiction of love and survival that remains relevant in times of global financial crisis and economic diaspora. The superb performances, engaging dialogues, and poignant storytelling make it not merely a film but a timeless piece of art that transcends geographical and generational boundaries.

In summary, Common Places is an exceptionally well-crafted film that dives into the deep end of the human experience. It takes its audience on an emotional roller coaster leaving them with a sense of life's complexity, ambiguity, and the enduring power of love and shared experiences. It is a must-watch for all film enthusiasts who value quality cinema that deals with actual emotions in a profoundly human context.