There are a few things that I should mention about Amores Perros for those who have not heard of it. The first is that it is subtitled, as it is a Mexican film and thus filmed in Spanish so for those unwilling to consider watching a foreign film read no further. The second is that the translation ... Read review
Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's strikingAmores Perrosis the filmPulp Fictionmight have been ... more
if Quentin Tarantino were as interested in people as movies. A car crash in Mexico City entwines three stories: in one car is Octavio, who has been entering his d...
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Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's strikingAmores Perrosis the filmPulp Fictionmight have been ... more
if Quentin Tarantino were as interested in people as movies. A car crash in Mexico City entwines three stories: in one car is Octavio, who has been entering his d...
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Amores Perros' is a bold intensely emotional and ambitious story of lives that collide ... more
in a Mexico City car crash. Inventively structured as a triptych of overlapping and intersecting narratives this blisteringly intense film explores the lives of d...
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Since exploding on to the scene as a winner at the 2000 Cannes Film Festival, Alejandro ... more
Gonzalez Innaritu's Amores Perros has gone on to achieve universal acclaim and admiration from critics, cinemagoers and directors alike. The film undoubtedly herald...
Alejandro Gonzalez Iniarritu makes an electrifying directorial debut with AMORES PERROS, ... more
an energetic, assured motion picture that jumps off the screen with a seemingly boundless energy. Told in three separate chapters--OCTAVIO AND SUSANA, DANIEL AND VALERIA, and EL CHIVO AND MARU--the film concerns the issue of love in the lives of several individuals residing in modern day Mexico City. Octavio (Gael Garcia Bernal) has fallen in love with his brother's wife, Susana (Vanessa Bauche). He begins entering his dog in illegal dogfights in order to save up enough money to run away with her, but eventually learns a powerful lesson when she fails to keep her word. Meanwhile, Daniel (Alvaro Guerrero) has left his wife and daughters for the gorgeous model Valeria (Goya Toledo), but when she is hurt badly in a car accident, the strain on their relationship is stretched to its limits. Finally, El Chivo (Emilio Echevarria) is an ex-revolutionary who has become a paid assassin. Saddened that he has lost all contact with his daughter, he takes one final stand when an intended act of kindness turns brutally tragic. Shot with hand held immediacy on grainy film stock by Rodrigo Prieto, Iniarritu's invigorating, Oscar-nominated film gets an added jolt of adrenaline from its throbbing soundtrack.
Production Year: 2004 - Drama - Director: Nick Cassavetes - Original Language: English - Classification: 15 years and over, 12 years and over - Starring: Rachel McAdams, Ryan Gosling, Gena Rowlands
Advantages: The comparisons to Pulp Fiction are well deserved - it's that good. Disadvantages: The subtitles will prevent it getting the exposure it deserves.
...that I should mention about Amores Perros for those who have not heard of it. The first is that it is subtitled, as it is a Mexican film and thus filmed in Spanish so for those unwilling to consider watching a foreign film read no further. The second is that the translation of Amores Perros is Love’s a Bitch, which proves a very apt title. The third is that it has received numerous comparisons to Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction and deservedly ... ...experience.
Amores Perros is simply an unmissable film; it is, as Empire magazine claims, ‘the film that Pulp Fiction might have been if Quentin Tarantino were as interested in people as movies’. It is two and a half hours of utterly compelling viewing, there is considerable violence both canine and human but it is not used gratuitously, the stories are thought provoking and realistic and the acting and direction is top ... more
There are a few things that I should mention about Amores Perros for those who have not heard of it. The first is that it is subtitled, as it is a Mexican film and thus filmed in Spanish so for those unwilling to consider watching a foreign film read no further. The second is that the translation of Amores Perros is Love’s a Bitch, which proves a very apt title. The third is that it has received numerous comparisons to Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction and deservedly so for it is an outstanding film that was nominated for the Best Foreign Film Oscar this year.
The comparison to Pulp Fiction is not for its content but for the similarity in tying together three separate stories with a central theme. As in Pulp Fiction the action is not chronological and the three stories are continuously woven into each other in such a way that the initial confusion such a method cannot avoid soon turns into breath-taking clarity. Each story is thoroughly compelling and all are based on the titular premise that Love’s a Bitch.
The film opens at full throttle, quite literally, as we, via the camera, are thrown into Octavio’s desperate attempt to flee from a pursuing Jeep containing gun-toting villains. Beside him is his friend who is trying to administer aid to his badly wounded dog in the back seat. The opening scene ends in a collision with another car as Octavio plows recklessly through a red light. It is this crash that is the central point of the three stories.
We rapidly cut back to Octavio’s story, he is a young man who is smitten with his abusive older brothers wife. In order to convince her of his devotion he starts to enter his dog into illegal dogfights. The scenes containing the dogfights are bound to receive condemnation as the film itself in no way condones or condemns the sport. The fights are portrayed as before and after shots with very little in the way of the actual fight but I should mention those with more sensitive dispositions towards mans best friend’s may still be horrified by the bloody aftermath – you have been warned.
As Octavio’s compelling story leads to the inevitable crash the characters of the other two stories are introduced. The second story concerns Daniel, a businessman who leaves his wife for beautiful model Valerie. Valerie however is the driver of the other car involved in the crash and receives horrific injuries to her leg. The third story involves tramp hitman Chivo, who is surrounded by strays at all times, and his obsession with a young beautiful women. He is present at the scene of the crash and he rescues and nurses Octavio’s dog back to health.
Whilst the crash is the focal point connecting the three stories it is the canine element that are integral to the actual stories themselves. In the first, Octavio’s hopes and dreams are inextricably linked to his dog. The second story introduces us to Valerie’s canine companion who disappears down a hole in the floorboards. She hears his continual whimpering, which causes her considerable distress and is poignantly symmetric to her own confinement in her wheelchair. In the third story Octavio’s dog fundamentally changes Chivo when it reverts to the nature that has been instilled in it. I realise that all this sounds a little cryptic but I have tried to prevent divulging too much of the plot.
The three stories are all well acted and credit must go to the diverse cast who all portray their albeit strange characters with a believability that greatly aids the story but it is the imaginative direction and superb editing that make the film so impressive. All the camera work reeks of style, the use of faded colour giving a gritty true-to-life realism combined with the handheld feel, which is particularly effective during the opening scene when the audience is thrown into the car chase masterfully. Debut director Ajexandro Gonzles Inarritu has produced an exhilarating and engrossing journey through the lives of people affected by a single event.
If there is to be criticism of the film it’s running length of 153 minutes is perhaps one, there are several scenes in the second section that could have been reduced in length if not cut. In addition the third section whilst engrossing seemed to lack the irony and profundity of the first two that slightly detracted from the film. These are however petty foibles when compared with the plethora of elements that make this movie a great cinematic experience.
Amores Perros is simply an unmissable film; it is, as Empire magazine claims, ‘the film that Pulp Fiction might have been if Quentin Tarantino were as interested in people as movies’. It is two and a half hours of utterly compelling viewing, there is considerable violence both canine and human but it is not used gratuitously, the stories are thought provoking and realistic and the acting and direction is top drawer. My advice is put aside any prejudices about foreign movies and subtitles and go and enjoy one of the finest films of the year.
Advantages: Different from the usual Hollywood flicks, gorgeous men, great story, superb acting. Disadvantages: Violent dog fights, although these are not gratuitous and are necessary to the story.
...the film. Essentially, Amores Perros (Love's a Bitch) is three intertwined stories set in Mexico City. The film is in Spanish with English subtitles, although much of the films impact is visual. The stories are weaved in and out of one another although one story tends to have the prime focus at any one time, until it reaches its climax and ends. The story of which most of the film is occupied with, is that of Octavio, who is in love with his brothers ... ...Taxi Driver or American Beauty, Amores Perros is a very atmospheric piece of film, where the sounds, sights and action combine to make something memorable and impressive. The blood and gore is a little disturbing but this is a film about life and death, so grit yout teeth and watch it without hiding behind a pillow. Although there are several twists in this film, I managed to follow it and I am not too proud to say I can be a little slow when it ...
MissDirect 08.10.2002 (16.06.2004)
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Amores Perros (Love's A Bitch) (Subtitled) (DVD)
Advantages: original, realistic, gritty Disadvantages: need to concentrate on plot (s)
...there's no spoilers here!!!
Amores Perros is a Mexican film with Subtitles in English. The language spoken in the film is Spanish (cool way to learn lots of swear words if you're off on your hols soon!!) This movie was nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Film. It should have won. The actors and actresses are all 'unknowns' but all act with amazing realism. The stories within this film all have a link with dogs and love in one way or another ... ...have all explained to them. Amores Perros is a long film - around three hours and does require concentration at times in order to keep up with all that is going on. If you tend to miss details you may end up being confused over what is happening!
It is also not the usual kind of action film that one would expect. It has caused some controversy (again amongst bloomin' film buffs!) for the violence contained within it. Violent though it is, the scenes ...
mbmb11 20.12.2001
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Amores Perros (Love's A Bitch) (Subtitled) (DVD)
Advantages: the acting, the stories, the works! Disadvantages: the end - wanna know more!
In preparations for my trip to Cental America this May, I have decided to watch as many spanish films as possible. Despite learning spanish for nearly a year, it's taking me some time to sit down and watch one.
It's not that I think they are hard work - far from it, but because I want to see how much of the film I understand without reading the subtitles, I need to be in the right frame of mind. And what better frame of mind than trying to block ... ...spirit! ;0)
Right! Enough about me, lets get on with the film....
The film starts with a bang - lots of shouting and swearing, and when I first saw the two characters responsible for the ruckus, I thougyht I had put Reservoir Dogs in the video instead, with all the blood over the back seat of the car. For Mr Orange read Cofi the dog!
I was literally on the edge of my seat from the minute the film starts, feeling empathy for the two young men (Gael ...
carlathomas 04.01.2004 (06.02.2004)
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful Review of Amores Perros (Love's A Bitch) (Subtitled) (DVD)
Advantages: Authentic Disadvantages: Rather violent sometimes
Amores perros
-------------
Defintely one of the best movies I've ever seen. One that really touches you. I went to see it with my girlfriend. She used to dislike "alternative" movies. But when the names appeared at the end of the movie (150min!) she spontanuously said and with a sad voice: "Oh... it isn't over, is it?" :(
What is the movie about? It 's about three people and their dogs in Mexico city. Their lives cross eachother in a car accident. ... ...tracks: Nacha pop - Lucha de gigantes ; Control machete - Amores perros (opening track).
Now go watch this. You'll never spend a penny anymore to watch an Hollywood-movie! I'm not planning to give a lot of 5 stars to movies, but this one deserves 6! :) ...
Bastien 16.04.2001
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful Review of Amores Perros (Love's A Bitch) (Subtitled) (DVD)
Advantages: Fast paced, violent action! Disadvantages: SUBTITLES or badly overdubbed voices.
When my film studies teacher announced that we were about to watch one of her favourite movies of all time, I was intially uneasy as she favours obscure, national films. Whereas I tend to favour a good old cheesy hollywood storyline. The thought of it being made in Mexico and the fact that it had subtitles had me dozing of before the opening credits. However, when it started I sat up and took notice as I was about to experience a wild ride through ... ...The story is set out in New Mexico and we are introduced to each group separately. The opening car chase sequence is one to be marvelled at, as we are hit with instant high paced action in an adreline packed scene. The swirling colours, blood and frantic shouting confused me at first but at the same time kept me enthralled thoughout the first scene and left me wanting to know more. In turn we are introuduced to three sets of people all with their ...
letsgotowork 21.02.2004
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful Review of Amores Perros (Love's A Bitch) (Subtitled) (DVD)
Trailer - 1. Original Theatrical, Alternate Scenes with Audio Commentary - 1. Alejandro González Iárritu - Director, Bonus Footage - 1. Behind the Scenes, Music Videos (3), Campaign Development, Scene Access, Interactive Menus
Sound
Dolby Digital 5.1
Dubbing Sound
Dolby Digital 5.1 Spanish
Professional reviews
Review
"...Fierce, loving, and electric, this movie's got bite as well as bark..." (Entertainment Weekly, p.90, 06/04/2001)
"...Inarritu's deft eye crafts scenes of realism, depth, and empathy, all of them seething with raw emotional power..." (Film Comment, p.72, 01/03/2001)
"AMORES PERROS is in every way a major work....It is fully realized in all ways, ablaze with a raft of vital portrayals and rich in meaning and implication..." (Los Angeles Times, p.2, 13/04/2001)
"...Charged with macabre, original and dramatically riveting moments..." (Movieline, p.31, 01/04/2001)
"...This film is satisfying....AMORES feels like the first classic of the new decade, with sequences that will probably make their way into history..." (New York Times, p.E12, 30/03/2001)
"...Involving. Thanks to Wang's tidy, knowing direction, we are subject to some fresh, unsettling insights..." (Premiere, p.102, 01/04/2001)
"...Like all the best movies, you leave AMORES PERROS seeing the world with new eyes..." (Rolling Stone, p.145-6, 12/04/2001)
"...AMORES PERROS is urban hip-hop film-making from Mexico and it's definitely fly..." (Sight and Sound, p.39-40, 01/04/2001)
"...A grabber....Inarritu keeps us involved..." (USA Today, p.E4, 30/03/2001)
DVD Description
Alejandro Gonzalez Iniarritu makes an electrifying directorial debut with AMORES PERROS, an energetic, assured motion picture that jumps off the screen with a seemingly boundless energy. Told in three separate chapters--OCTAVIO AND SUSANA, DANIEL AND VALERIA, and EL CHIVO AND MARU--the film concerns the issue of love in the lives of several individuals residing in modern day Mexico City. Octavio (Gael Garcia Bernal) has fallen in love with his brother's wife, Susana (Vanessa Bauche). He begins entering his dog in illegal dogfights in order to save up enough money to run away with her, but eventually learns a powerful lesson when she fails to keep her word. Meanwhile, Daniel (Alvaro Guerrero) has left his wife and daughters for the gorgeous model Valeria (Goya Toledo), but when she is hurt badly in a car accident, the strain on their relationship is stretched to its limits. Finally, El Chivo (Emilio Echevarria) is an ex-revolutionary who has become a paid assassin. Saddened that he has lost all contact with his daughter, he takes one final stand when an intended act of kindness turns brutally tragic. Shot with hand held immediacy on grainy film stock by Rodrigo Prieto, Iniarritu's invigorating, Oscar-nominated film gets an added jolt of adrenaline from its throbbing soundtrack.
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