Gente de Bién

GENTE DE BIÉN, which translates as both “well-off people” and “decent people,” tells the story of a boy’s introduction to the realities of income inequality. Eric is ten and lives with his extended family in chaotic circumstances in Bogota. He’s suddenly taken to live with his father Gabriel, whom he barely knows. Gabriel is a semi-employed carpenter who can barely keep his own head above water. His biggest client is Maria Isabel, a well-meaning professor. She invites him to join a group of friends at her country house, where she has furniture that needs repair, suggesting he bring along Eric for a holiday. Gabriel reluctantly agrees. Though Eric initially enjoys horseback riding and days in the pool with other boys, he and Gabriel soon realize they’re out of their element. With characters on both sides of the economic divide displaying strengths and weaknesses, the film avoids stereotypes and features a genuine performance by young Brayan Santamaría as Eric. (In Spanish with subtitles) – B.B.