Drama/Mex

While droves of American tourists flock to Acapulco for peaceful respite, life is anything but calm for the eclectic cast of locals in Gerardo Naranjo's DRAMA/MEX. Fernanda is dating Gonzalo. But Fernanda's roguish ex-boyfriend Chano (who previously stole money from her wealthy father before skipping town) has just come back to collect her and her spare change. Naturally, passionate Gonzalo isn't too pleased by Chano's return. Meanwhile, “old-timer” Jaime, no longer inspired by his job or his family, spits on his boss's desk, walks off with the company payroll, and leaves his wife and family with intent to kill himself. Yet, before he can do so, Jaime meets Tigrillo, an aspiring “Yahairas” (or “you hire us”), a vampy posse of tourist-swindling teens. In one hot night, alcohol will be consumed, serenades will be sung, tears will be shed, and romantic entanglements will become even more entangled. But these drama-filled residents of paradise have one thing in common-they all want to escape the banality of “Crapapulco.” Naranjo challenges traditional notions of narrative time and perspective in this racy, gripping film. (In Spanish with English subtitles) – E.J.B.