Review of Roma (2018) by Film_Chase — 25 Feb 2019

Roma Review.

By Chase M.

Not only is Roma (2018) Alfonso Cuarnó’s most personal work, it’s also his best. The film grabs you from the first frame, and doesn’t let you go until the end of its 2:15 run time. Cuarón’s mastery of the camera is evident in scene. Every shot contains so much painstaking detail; you can’t help but feel the passion and commitment that went into this project. Roma, is the story of Cleo who works as a maid for a middle class family in the 1970s. The film documents a year in her life.

Before I discuss anything else, let me heap more praise onto what Cuarón did. To take these childhood experiences, and recreate them in such a loving way is something truly special. The writing in this film is simple yet moving. The film really made me care about, and connect with the character of Cleo. Cuarón’s cinematography is something to marvel at as well. Each shot is beautifully presented, and the lighting is top notch all the way through. I could go on about how great the camera work is, but I won’t. Just know it’s something special and go experience it.

The performances are all strong. Particularly those of Cleo and Sofía, played by Yalitza Aparicio and Marina de Tavira. Both embody the strong female figures that become the focus of the film. Aparicio as a first time actress is particularly impressive, she delivers a powerful performance full of emotion. The acting nominations for these two, were well deserved.

Roma is a masterpiece. It is the culmination of all the work Alfonso Cuarón has put in throughout his career. I was skeptical going in (mostly due to the fact that it’s a Netflix movie) but I loved every second of it. This movie is a victory for foreign film makers everywhere. It’s a shame the Academy didn't pick Roma as ‘best picture’, because it deserved it more than any of the other nominees. Regardless, Roma is exceptional in every sense of the word and deserves to be experienced by anyone who appreciates the art of cinema.