I Like It Like That

I Like It Like That is a vibrant and spirited film that was released in 1994. Directed by Darnell Martin, this heart-tugging, and dramatic-comedy is centered around the volatile couple Chino and Lisette Linares. The movie features a remarkable cast, including Luna Lauren Velez in the role of Lisette Linares, Jon Seda as Chino Linares, and Tomas Melly in the role of Little Chino.

Set against the animated backdrop of the Bronx, this film portrays the narrative of a young Latina woman's struggle in maintaining her family's unity amidst financial and personal challenges. The movie deftly explores the socio-cultural intricacies of an urban neighborhood, beset by poverty and crime yet resolute in spirit.

The charming Luna Lauren Velez brilliantly portrays the character of Lisette Linares, a vivacious young woman juggling the roles of a caring wife and devoted mother to three children. When her hot-headed husband, Chino, played with intensity by Jon Seda, is sent to prison following a dubious incident, Lisette finds herself scrambling to hold her family together. The narrative of Lisette’s journey to overcome her challenges forms the heart of the movie. This audacious woman braves the world head-on, revealing her resilient heart and her bold determination to protect her family.

The movie takes viewers through Lisette's empowering journey of self-discovery as she embarks on a path she never imagined. As she attempts to find a job and combat financial woes, she steps into the world of music, a daring move that serves as her saving grace. Through this new endeavor, Lisette gains a newfound sense of empowerment and independence. Yet, her interactions with her moody and unpredictable beau Chino continue to add a complicated layer to her life, stirring the pot of the narrative.

As the story progresses, the viewer is also introduced to a colorful array of supporting characters like the scene-stealing Tomas Melly as Little Chino. Each character, however slightly sketched, adds depth to the film, creating an immersive universe within the Bronx that viewers can identify with and appreciate.

The film brilliantly interweaves elements of romance, drama, comedy, and urban strife, making it a beautiful piece of cinema that mirrors reality. Director Darnell Martin presents the Bronx as a character in its own right, with all its cultural vibes, lively music, bustling streets, overshadowed by societal problems and resilient inhabitants.

I Like It Like That elicits humor, empathy, and social awareness, flawlessly blending its upbeat soundtrack into the narrative, which, in essence, is a moving exploration of racial identity, family, resilience, and determination against challenging odds. The cinematography, infused with the ethnic diversity of the depicted Bronx neighborhood, adds a visually striking dimension to the film, bringing the plot and characters to life.

Bringing forth themes of gender, race, and social class, the movie paints an intimate portrayal of a resilient Latina woman's struggles navigating through personal and societal challenges. Despite Lisette's trials and tribulations, she retains her tenacity, balancing her responsibilities with grit and style, making her a relatable figure for many viewers.

The screenplay is layered and intelligent, presenting an urban narrative that speaks volumes about societal issues from a woman's perspective. I Like It Like That is earnest, funny, and audacious, propelled by the vigorous performances of Luna Lauren Velez and Jon Seda, and supported by a talented multiracial cast.

In a nutshell, I Like It Like That is a warm, fun, and poignantly dramatic film about finding one's strength amidst adversity. It is a powerful depiction of a community's struggles and triumphs through the lens of a brave and resilient woman. This film is a must-watch for those who appreciate a good blend of drama, comedy, and social commentary, along with an evocative soundtrack and memorable performances.