The Man Who Shook the Hand of Vincent Fernandez

The Man Who Shook the Hand of Vincent Fernandez is a 2012 film starring renowned actors Ernest Borgnine, Barry Corbin, and Carla Ortiz. This compelling drama-comedy offers old-school charm with its storytelling prowess, blending together wit, emotion, and an inspiring message about the dignity of age and the power of respect.

The movie focuses on the life of Rex Page (Ernest Borgnine), an old man who has always dreamed of being a famous actor in Western films. Unfortunately, Rex's life doesn't go as planned and instead, he's left with the disappointment of unfulfilled dreams. His life takes a turn when he lands in a nursing home after a tragic back injury. As he navigates this new terrain, he's compelled to deal with the reality of aging and, more importantly, an impending sense of irrelevance.

In the nursing home, Rex finds himself initially reduced to a role of insignificance, much to his dismay. However, he quickly becomes an unlikely hero when he stands up against the nursing home's power-hungry manager and nursing staff. The predominantly Latinx staff and residents wrongly assume Rex once met a famous Latino Western film icon, Vincent Fernandez, and Rex does nothing to correct their assumption. This simple misunderstanding earns Rex a degree of respect and reverence among the group, which he had never experienced before.

The presence of the captivating nurse, Solena (Carla Ortiz), adds a unique dynamic to the story. Solena, with her warmth and genuine care for the residents, becomes a beacon of hope for Rex in his otherwise gloomy nursing home existence. The evolving bond between them adds another layer of excitement and wonders to the story, promising viewers a heartfelt journey through Rex's final adventures.

Barry Corbin convincingly plays the role of Rex's cynical roommate whose friendship adds a layer of complexity and depth to Rex's character. The movie, with its realistic portrayal of the life inside a nursing home, and the unlikely friendships that blossom in the place, truly reflects the spirit of camaraderie and resilience.

The director, Elia Petridis, presents this nuanced narrative with a remarkable degree of sensitivity and humor. Petridis successfully provides a detailed examination of Rex's internal and external struggle, complete with the challenge of confronting old age, the fear of oblivion, and the aspiration to leave a lasting legacy.

One of the film's most compelling aspects is the performance of Ernest Borgnine in his final lead role. At the age of 95, Borgnine's embodiment of Rex is a testament to his enduring talent and his ability to deeply resonate with viewers. His portrayal of Rex, a man grappling with the twilight of his life while yearning for a taste of fame and recognition, is both moving and remarkable.

The Man Who Shook the Hand of Vincent Fernandez is enriched by its selective blend of comedy and drama. At times thought-provoking and others sorrowful, it injects just enough humor to maintain a balance. This balance ensures that the film doesn't tip too heavily into the realms of melancholy, keeping the narrative engaging and relatable. The dramatic elements concerning Rex's pursuit of validation and esteem are interspersed with comedic moments that showcase the protagonist's charisma and likability.

The beautiful score by Ruy Folguera complements the story's mood wonderfully, adding a poignant touch to the emotionally charged scenes as well as elevating the feel-good moments. The film's cinematography perfectly encapsulates the nuanced emotions and experiences of its eclectic mix of characters.

In all, The Man Who Shook the Hand of Vincent Fernandez is a poignant portrayal of dreams, age, and dignity, offering a fitting tribute to Borgnine's remarkable career. With its enduring story of an old man's urge to be remembered, the movie is a refreshing take on the challenges of aging, with the importance of dreams and legacy at its heart. Brimming with entertaining dialogue, vivid characters, and earnest performances, it is a movie that will stir audiences and leave a lasting impression.