Vertigo

Vertigo
Vertigo

Tuesday, January 29, 2019

The Pure Pleasures of ROMA


A loving vignette of childhood experiences with the family nanny, Roma is a triumph of fond memory and maternal love by master director, Alfonso Cuarón (Gravity) at the top of his game who also wrote, produced, shot, and co-edited this tribute!


In the early 1970s in Mexico City, a busy, middle class family has a nanny, Cleo (Yalitza Aparicio), who cares for the children and takes care of chores.  It is a time of change with political upheaval in city streets and the constant threat of violence.  Cleo is involved in many family activities and acts as surrogate mother to these children who have become her defacto family. On a personal side, she deals with romance and disappointment while maintaining her job, and there are moments when all aspects converge.  After a road trip to visit relatives, the family has its own upheaval, and Cleo is the one constant and savior through it all.    


The nostalgic moments are lovingly recreated in impeccable detail, and the black and white cinematography is vibrant and exquisite like still life.  There is a documentary feel to it with some of the best moments (including a harrowing moments at a hospital and the beach) in scenes bereft of dialogue (Spanish language).


As Cleo, first time actress Aparicio is a natural on the screen with an authentic performance.  The film is told from her point of view with the sights and distinct sounds of local street scenes; we experience her joys and sadness especially when tragedy strikes.

Roma is the latest in a group of standout, semiautobiographical films like The 400 Blows and Hope and Glory that are precious time capsules that capture youthful pain and joy.  This labor of love is Cuarón’s most personal film and perhaps his best, a masterpiece.

**** of **** stars

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