MARIANA CHENILLO | MEXICO | 2013 | 105' | SPANISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
'Big is beautiful' seems to be the message in Paraíso by Mexican director Mariana Chenillo, whose Cinco días sin Nora was screened during World Cinema Amsterdam 2010. In her new film, a light-footed and entertaining comedy about an overweight couple's marital issues, she manages to avoid the clichés and obvious silly jokes.
Carmen and Alfredo, both bordering on the obese, have been together since high school. They love each other and lead a happy life in a friendly town. She works for her family's business; he handles IT for a bank.
However, Alfredo receives a promotion, which requires them to move to the busy capital. Carmen quits her job and becomes a full-time homemaker. At her husband's office party, she overhears two women snickering about her and his appearance. In response, she decides to start a weight-loss program. Alfredo supports her by joining in. That's when all the hassle starts: Alfredo rapidly sheds pound after pound, whereas she doesn't manage to lose even an ounce. It doesn't get any easier when she joins a Mediterranean cuisine class. And then there's Marta, Alfredo's attractive co-worker...
Screenings
Vondelpark Open Air Theater:
SAT 9 AUG – 21.30
(admission free)
Marie Heinekenplein:
WED 20 AUG - 21.30 Vooraf: DJ Cinema Royale
(admission free)
Rialto:
SUN 24 AUG – 19.30 