Quisiera Ser Hombre

Quisiera Ser Hombre is a Spanish-language comedy film from 1988, showcasing the talents of Lucero, Guillermo Capetillo, and Erika Magnus. Taking the viewer on a enjoyable, comedic ride, this film presents an offbeat concept while seamlessly incorporating elements of humor, romance, and friendship.

The film revolves around the vivacious character of Andrea, played by popular singer and award-winning actress Lucero, who is stating her perspective on life. Tired of the unfair treatment society layers on women and dreaming of the freedom men appear to have, she impetuously wishes to become a man overnight. To her astonishment, she wakes up the next morning to discover her wish has come true - she has transformed into a man!

The plot further thickens as Andrea, now in the guise of 'Andres' played by Guillermo Capetillo, navigates the uncharted waters of manhood, confronting various hilarious situations and challenges, while grappling with masculine norms and standards. Her transformation allows for the exploration of societal gender roles and expectations in a lighthearted yet poignant manner that leaves the audience pondering long after the end credits.

Set in the bustling urban landscape of Mexico City, Quisiera Ser Hombre underlines the struggle of a woman grappling with the dichotomy of gender roles. This female-led film stands out in the Mexican cinema of the late 80s, resonating with the socio-cultural movements advocating for equality and women’s rights of that time.

Meanwhile, the third leading character, Elvira portrayed by Erika Magnus, emerges as a significant part of the narrative. The complex relationship between Andrea and Elvira grows more convoluted after Andrea's transformation. The distinct contrast between their character arcs, from being friends to dealing with an unexplored and bizarre dynamic, adds further layers to the narrative.

The film has an ensemble cast of talented actors who brilliantly embody their roles. Well-known for her singing and acting talents, Lucero beautifully portrays the essence of Andrea's character, mastering the nuances of the sassy, bubbly teenager with dreams and ambitions. Simultaneously, Guillermo Capetillo as Andres, does an impeccable job of displaying a wide spectrum of emotions, portraying the numerous situations of comedy, drama, and suspense.

Erika Magnus, equally compelling in her role, provides the right balance between the two lead characters, contributing to the humor and tension of the situations with her well-delivered performance. Their combined acting skills make the film even more entertaining.

The music of Quisiera Ser Hombre is another shining aspect of the movie. With a catchy soundtrack coupled with Lucero's singing talent, this film stands out from other films of the period. The songs convey not just the essential storyline, but they also express the emotions and the state of mind of the characters at key moments in the film. The music thus becomes an integral part of the visual storytelling, amplifying the narrative's impact on viewers.

On the production front, Quisiera Ser Hombre is directed by Abel Salazar, who successfully weaves the compelling storyline into an engaging visual tale. His unique directorial style is evident in the film's quick-paced narrative yet composed rhythm, evidencing his ability to handle comedy with ease.

The script of the film, penned by José Loza and María Antonieta Saenz, deserves due praise for its unique concept. It effectively combines an unconventional premise with comedy, camaraderie, and a subtle portrayal of societal norms and gender expectations.

Overall, Quisiera Ser Hombre is a clear depiction of 1980s Mexican cinema—progressive, melodramatic yet subtly touching upon important social issues. While primarily a comedy, it presents a nuanced take on gender and societal expectations, embracing the power of 'what-if' scenarios and showing the audience that the grass is not always greener on the other side. Beyond its entertainment value and humor, Quisiera Ser Hombre leaves viewers with food for thought, making it a fine representation of intelligently crafted popular cinema.