Were Rudi Y Cursi a bad film it would be easy to write it off as having been made only because the director is Alfonso Cuarón’s brother, Carlos. However this is most certainly not the case as Rudi Y Cursi is a phenomenal film about brotherly love, soccer, fame and what that fame can do to you.
Tato (Gael Garcia Bernal) and Beto (Diego Luna) are two half brothers who live in a small Mexican village. They are banana farmers but their passion is soccer. Well, Tato’s first love is singing – soccer comes second for him. They’re lives are turned upside down when soccer talent scout Batuta (Guillermo Francella) winds up in their village and sees them play. But he’s only willing to take one and demands a penalty shoot off. As Beto loves soccer more they agree to rig the kick, but confusion sends Tato on his way to fame and fortune leaving Beto behind. Thus ignites the rivalry of these already argumentative brothers.
Tato begins to make a name for himself and begs Batuta to find Tato a team and soon both brothers are on their way to the top. Tato earns the name Cursi for his flamboyant dancing after each score and Beta gets the name Rudi for his rough style and is soon on his way to a shut out season. But fame goes to both brothers’ heads. Tato gets wrapped up in TV Starlet with expensive taste and attempts a singing career, while Beto’s addiction to gambling takes a dangerous turn when he’s introduced to drugs
While there are some cliché elements to this film used in just about every sports film, the way they are used here is anything but. The film comes full circle as the brother’s teams must face off in the final game of the season and that game comes down to one penalty kick. Both brothers have a lot riding on this game from their entire career to gambling debts and how it ends… well, I’ll let you grip your seat a little longer.
Having reviewed the film theatrically I was hesitant to review the DVD as well, but I loved the film so much I was curious to see how it would hold up on a second viewing and I was also looking forward to the special features. I can honestly tell you that the film definitely holds up on repeat viewings and I already look forward to watching it again. Knowing how the film ends takes nothing away from the tension of the final scene.
Plus, in Blu-ray the film certainly looks fantastic. Perhaps even more so than it did in the theater. The subtitles aren’t at all improved from the theatrical release and much of the cursing is still missing, but it’s still a wonderful film and worthy of your time and if you feel so inclined, your dollar.
This film is presented in 1.77:1 anamorphic widescreen and 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound. The film looks and sounds excellent. It’s not the prettiest most polished film, but the colors still really pop and it’s got some moments of beautiful cinematography.
Commentary with Carlos Cuarón, Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna: This is a very hilarious commentary. Bernal and Luna play the role of the “real” Tato and Beto and spend most the time pointing out the “historical inaccuracies,” insulting the actors who play them and bitching about how long the movie is. The commentary is in Spanish which was a first for me, but the guys were so entertaining it was definitely worth sitting through.
Deleted Scenes: (5 min.) These 6 scenes are okay and show things that are hinted at in the film, but ultimately weren’t needed.
Making Of: (27 min.) This is a thorough making of. Pretty typical but certainly interesting if you liked the film.
Turn off your cell phone!: (1 min.) A fake ad about turning cell phones off in the theater starring Bernal and Luna as their characters. Silly, funny stuff.
Q&A with Carlos Cuarón, Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna: (71 min.) This might have been interesting if the interviewer wasn’t so damn annoying. The guys do their best to keep things entertaining, but man, the interviewer is really, really annoying.
Music Videos: (10 min.) There are videos for “Quiero Que Mr Quieras” by Bernal and “Rudi Y Cursi” by Juana Molina. There is also a a Karoke version of Bernal’s video so you can sing along in Spanish!
Trailer
Blu-ray Live enabled
Rudi Y Cursi is a great film and an impressive debut from Carlos Cuarón. I can’t wait to see what he does next. Bernal and Luna are both at the top of their game her and deliver very memorable performances. It doesn’t matter whether or not you like soccer, this is a film that goes far beyond that and will be enjoyable for just about everyone.
Sony presents Rudo Y Cursi. Directed by: Carlos Cuarón. Starring: Gael Garcia Bernal, Diego Luna. Written by: Carlos Cuarón. Running time: 103. Rating: R for pervasive language, sexual content and brief drug use. Released on DVD: August 25, 2009. Available at Amazon.com
