Un Padre No Tan Padre

Un Padre No Tan Padre is a heartwarming and humorous Mexican dramedy from 2016. Directed by Raúl Martínez and under the production of Alberto Müffelmann, this movie showcases the importance of family ties, acceptance, and open-mindedness through the story of an 85 year-old traditionalist and his unconventional son.

The movie features Sergi Mayer Mori portraying the role of Fran, the free-spirited independent son, with Camila Selser and Jacqueline Bracamontes starring in equally impressive supporting roles. These vibrant characters make the movie a captivating watch, contributing to its unusual portrayal of an usual scenario.

Don Servando Villegas, played by Héctor Bonilla, is the quintessential gruff, 85-year-old Mexican patriarch who leads an extremely ordered and traditional life. His principles and strict values are entrenched deeply within him, and that could be a little too much for his family. After being expelled from his retirement home due to bad behavior, Servando finds himself in a bind, having estranged most of his family. With no choice left but to live with his bohemian son, Fran, Servando moves into his son's offbeat community home that is as far from his methodical and disciplined life as it could get.

The narrative sets up immediately, presenting hilarious situations that emerge from Servando's hard-headed personality and the freethinking lives of Fran and his housemates. Despite their many differences, father and son embark on a journey of acceptance and understanding. Meeting Fran’s unusual housemates – an assorted ensemble including musicians, art therapists and vegans, Servando begins to understand that there not only exists a life beyond his stoic and disciplined world, but that it can be equally gratifying and respectful.

Meanwhile, Fran, who has lived most of his life avoiding his father's dominance and conducting his life to his liking, finds himself facing the challenge of dealing with Servando's obstinacy and grumpiness. The remarkable performances of the cast, and their depictions of this unusual yet relatable father-son duo, accentuates the movie's charm, drawing the audience in with authenticity and originality. 

Un Padre No Tan Padre is a journey of cross-generational understanding. Servando and Fran's evolving bond forms the crux of the narrative. Their interactions lead to instances of humor, drama, and deep emotional conversations that inspire not only each other but also everyone around them. Through these opposing but equally tenacious personalities, the movie touches on subjects of acceptance, letting go of stereotype, and respecting everyone’s individuality. The movie is filled with hilarious dialogue, heart-tugging moments that would leave viewers grabbed and engaged.

The film's soundtrack, cinematography, and set dressing play a significant role in driving its narrative, each serving to enhance the atmosphere of every scene, whether it's the bustling cityscape or serene commune. The relaxed, open communal space where Fran resides is a refreshing change of scene, populated by memorable, colourful characters, while the occasional flashback to Don Servando's austere, structured house serves to highlight the constrictions of his world.

Un Padre No Tan Padre is a breath of fresh air in its genre, boasting a well-crafted plot that balances gravity and humor, aided by standout performances from its cast. Bonilla shines in his role as Servando, grounding the film with his convincing portrayal of a somber, stubborn man struggling to accept his son's alternative lifestyle. As Fran, Mayer Mori counters him perfectly with his easy-going demeanor and earnest attempts to reconnect with his father.

Highlighting the importance of open-mindedness, adaptability, and familial bonds, Un Padre No Tan Padre is more than just a comedy – it is a heartwarming narrative with great emotional depth. This film is a must-watch for lovers of family-centered narratives, explorations of intergenerational relationships, and delightful character-driven humor. This feel-good movie serves as a reminder that it's never too late to change, grow, and embrace everything life has to offer.