I have a few words of warning about "Chico & Rita". That's because although it IS a cartoon, it certainly is NOT a movie for kids. It's not just that the story is the sort that would bore younger audiences to death but the film also has some amazingly explicit nudity, murder, drug use and sex. In other words, don't put the kids or grandma in front of the TV when this film is playing!
As you may or may not know, "Chico & Rita" was nominated for Best Animated Feature for 2012--losing to the much more commercial "Puss 'n Boots". The two films couldn't be any more different--as "Chico & Rita" is anything but commercial. It's a small-time production with a very unique independent feel.
The film is set mostly in 1940s Cuba (but also in the US and Paris) and is the story of two folks, Chico and Rita and their very tumultuous relationship as they work their way up through the music business. Because of many bad choices and misunderstandings, the two go from being in love to being at odds with each other to eventually leading very separate lives. There is a strong sense of regret and loss about the film and it is, in some ways, a bit depressing. Fortunately, things do work out well...eventually.
I noticed that the reviews for this film were all very positive. Well, I guess I am the voice of dissent. While I liked how unique the film was in style and content, I didn't care much for the story or the characters. Frankly, I just didn't like Chico or Rita and I didn't care what happened to them. Plus, with some small changes, the film COULD have been enjoyed by a much larger audience--but I wouldn't want teens watching the film due to some of the content. Overall, a truly unique film but one which, to me, seems a bit over-hyped--perhaps due to it's prestigious nomination.
As you may or may not know, "Chico & Rita" was nominated for Best Animated Feature for 2012--losing to the much more commercial "Puss 'n Boots". The two films couldn't be any more different--as "Chico & Rita" is anything but commercial. It's a small-time production with a very unique independent feel.
The film is set mostly in 1940s Cuba (but also in the US and Paris) and is the story of two folks, Chico and Rita and their very tumultuous relationship as they work their way up through the music business. Because of many bad choices and misunderstandings, the two go from being in love to being at odds with each other to eventually leading very separate lives. There is a strong sense of regret and loss about the film and it is, in some ways, a bit depressing. Fortunately, things do work out well...eventually.
I noticed that the reviews for this film were all very positive. Well, I guess I am the voice of dissent. While I liked how unique the film was in style and content, I didn't care much for the story or the characters. Frankly, I just didn't like Chico or Rita and I didn't care what happened to them. Plus, with some small changes, the film COULD have been enjoyed by a much larger audience--but I wouldn't want teens watching the film due to some of the content. Overall, a truly unique film but one which, to me, seems a bit over-hyped--perhaps due to it's prestigious nomination.