Todos los hombres son iguales

Todos los hombres son iguales is a 2016 romantic comedy film directed by Manuel Gómez Pereira, starring Christian Meier, Frank Perozo, and Mike Amigorena. This Spanish-language Dominican film is a contemporary examination of a peculiar modern phenomenon – extended bachelorhood and its ramifications, essentially questioning the age-old adage, “All men are the same”.

The film opens up to Joaquín, played by Christian Meier, a handsome and successful architect, undergoing a personal crisis as his wife leaves him. In order to deal with his grief alongside financial difficulties and to maintain his lifestyle, he decides to rent out his apartment in order to share expenses. His initial hopes of finding quiet, responsible tenants quickly veer off in an unexpected direction when he ends up with Hugo and Juan, played by Frank Perozo and Mike Amigorena, respectively.

Hugo and Juan, both divorced men, move in with Joaquín and initiate a sort of brotherhood of divorced men. Hugo, more relatable with his easy-going nature and optimistic outlook on life, and Juan, a classic playboy with a lack of maturity, both offer unique perspectives on divorce and bachelor life. They view their separation from their wives as a new lease of life and find joy in living a life without family commitments or relationship obligations.

The trio have diverse personalities but common experiences, which make for a compelling dynamic as they navigate the complicated, yet amusing challenges that come with becoming newly single in the middle age. The men find themselves entangled in hilarious situations as they try to redefine their identities, balance their work, dating lives, and personal growth while still coordinating their duties as part-time fathers.

The film also subtly brings into focus the men's struggle in understanding the female perspective. In many ways, the movie is a critical, yet light-hearted portrayal of misunderstandings between the sexes, and it raises questions around the stereotypes associated with both men and women. For instance, the iconic line from which the film gets its title, “All men are the same,” is often repeated and challenged throughout the narrative.

At its core, Todos los hombres son iguales is a romantic comedy but it does a remarkable job of crafting multi-dimensional characters that struggle with societal norms and personal dilemmas. Joaquín, battling his insecurities and facing midlife crisis, Hugo, a beleaguered working-class man trying to make ends meet, and Juan, a charming seducer with a zest for life, come together to form a modern, bachelor family. The ensemble is bound by their camaraderie and shared experiences, resulting in some endearing as well as comically exciting moments.

Performances from the three leads – Christian Meier, Frank Perozo, and Mike Amigorena – are the backbone of the film. Their dynamics and individual mannerisms breathe life into their characters, making the narrative relatable and engaging. Their seamless transition from light-hearted comedy to emotional explorations adds a depth to the film's overall narrative. Supporting performances, particularly from the many women who are an integral part of these men’s lives, give more layers to the storyline while adding both drama and humor to the plot.

The Director, Manuel Gómez Pereira, has done an admirable job of portraying a well-balanced narrative, filled with genuinely funny moments, snappy dialogues, and heartfelt emotions. He manages to take a humorous approach to modern relationship dynamics and divorce, translating serious issues into a heartwarming and entertaining story.

In summary, Todos los hombres son iguales is a captivating romantic comedy that treats a common saying with humor and insight, exploring the lives of three divorced men as they navigate love, fatherhood and friendship in their journey of self-discovery.