This Is Not a Comedy

This Is Not a Comedy is a 2021 Mexican film directed by Rodrigo Guardiola and starring Gabriel Nuncio, which adds a fresh spin to the dramedy genre by exploring life's serendipity, personal growth, and the inherent humor found within the human condition. It's a story that delves deep into themes of purpose, love, and existential angst, while also remaining surprisingly lighthearted at times, showcasing a blend of deep reflections and offbeat comedy.

The film centers on the protagonist, Gabriel, played by Gabriel Nuncio himself, who embarks on a personal journey that tests the limits of his aspirations, relationships, and emotional wellness. Gabriel is an aspiring comedian and actor, whose career has not quite taken off as he had hoped, and he finds himself at a crossroads both professionally and personally as he navigates the choppy waters of his mid-life crisis.

As viewers, we follow Gabriel's story interspersed with moments of introspection and comedy. He is an optimist at heart but is faced with the harsh realities of life that often leave his dreams just out of reach. The film captures his attempt to balance his passion with the need for a steady life and how he tries to achieve this in the bustling metropolis of Mexico City—a place as vibrant and complex as his own emotions.

Further complicating Gabriel's situation is his relationship with two remarkable women, played by Cassandra Ciangherotti and Adriana Paz. These characters are well-defined and integral to the narrative, and present their own set of challenges and perspectives to Gabriel's life. Their interactions with Gabriel add layers to the narrative, highlighting the nuances in the dynamics of friendship, love, and companionship. As the story unfolds, the characters all grapple with their own desires and setbacks against the backdrop of modern-day dilemmas and societal expectations.

The film's title, This Is Not a Comedy, is a play on expectations – suggesting that while Gabriel may be seeking the lighter side of life through his comedy and attempts to find meaning, his journey is fraught with complexities that can't be easily laughed away. The irony within the title reflects the piercing reality that life's narrative is not always neat or formulaic, and it often defies the structures of genre or the comfort of predictability.

Director Rodrigo Guardiola, who is renowned for being the drummer of the Mexican band Zoé, makes his directorial debut with a visually appealing style that complements the film's moods and themes. The city of Mexico, where the story unfolds, is presented with both vibrancy and authenticity, reflecting the characters' emotional states through its bustling streets and lively culture.

Storytelling in This Is Not a Comedy is an intriguing aspect, as it weaves together various storylines through a semi-autobiographical lens, suggesting a meta-narrative where Nuncio, playing a version of himself, blurs the lines between fiction and reality. The screenplay might touch upon the conundrum of whether life imitates art or art imitates life, and this interplay keeps the viewers engaged throughout the film.

The humor in the film is characteristically dry and often self-deprecating, which allows the narrative to maintain a light touch even when addressing the more serious aspects of life. The pacing of the film may be deliberate, lending time for the viewers to absorb and reflect upon the themes and experiences of the characters. It embraces a quieter, more observational style of comedy rather than relying on loud or slapstick humor.

The performances are compelling, especially Nuncio's, who, with a personal stake in the story, delivers a nuanced and relatable character. His genuine portrayal invites audience empathy, leaving viewers to root for his character despite his flaws and misadventures. The supporting performances by Ciangherotti and Paz are equally engaging; each actor brings a unique depth and humanity to their roles.

The soundtrack of the film may resonate with audiences as well, adding an extra layer to the storytelling, often punctuating key moments with emotional or ironic musical cues that reinforce the mood. The film's use of music aids in seamlessly transitioning between scenes and helps convey the internal states of the characters.

This Is Not a Comedy dives into an existential exploration without becoming overly grim, maintaining a delicate balance that resonates with those who have ever pondered their own place in the world. It's a reflective experience, and while it might challenge viewers with its blend of comedy and drama, it also provides a sense of camaraderie – a shared understanding that life's journey is unpredictable, often difficult, but almost always worth a few laughs along the way.