“Roma 1972” is a visually stunning black and white film that immerses us into the life of Cleo, a maid who quietly observes the world around her while dealing with her own personal struggles. The cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the mundane and the spectacular moments in equal measure. Through Cleo’s eyes, we witness the complexities of familial relationships, societal hierarchies, and political protests during a tumultuous time in Mexico’s history. “Roma 1972” is a poetic masterpiece that reminds us of the power of empathy amidst chaos.
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Review
When it comes to movies, there are some that simply awe you with their sheer brilliance and storytelling. “Roma” is one such film that left the audience spellbound. The movie was directed by the critically acclaimed director Alfonso Cuaron, who also wrote the script and contributed to other aspects of the movie as well.
Set in Mexico City in the early 1970s, Roma follows the story of Cleo, a domestic worker for a middle-class family. The film explores themes such as class, race, gender, politics, and family dynamics in a way that is both raw and delicate.
The movie’s protagonist Cleo is played beautifully by Yalitza Aparicio. She brings depth and authenticity to her character and portrays her emotions with just the right amount of subtlety. Another standout actor in the movie is Marina de Tavira who plays Sofia, the mother of a young family who Cleo is employed by.
The plot of Roma is not one that will immediately grab your attention with suspense or action scenes but instead relies on its character development to capture your heart. As we follow Cleo’s journey throughout the movie, we learn about her life outside of work and see how she touches those around her.
One of the most striking aspects of Roma is its cinematography. The black and white color palette gives it a timeless feel while also accentuating its emotionality. It also features some expertly crafted long takes that add an immersive quality to each scene.
Roma has received widespread critical acclaim since its release in 2018. It won numerous awards including Best Director at both the Golden Globes and Oscars. It also was nominated for Best Picture at both ceremonies but ultimately lost out to “Green Book” at the Oscars.
Despite its accolades though, Roma may not have achieved as much commercial success as it deserved due to being released primarily on Netflix – which some still believe diminishes its significance as a film. However, the streaming service certainly allowed Roma to reach a wider and more diverse audience.
Beyond its cinematic prowess, Roma is also important for its socio-political message. The film draws heavily on Cuaron’s own life growing up in Mexico City and highlights the struggles of class inequality and racial discrimination.
In particular, the movie tackles themes surrounding women’s rights while also addressing issues such as political upheaval, abortion, poverty, and social unrest. Through Cleo’s story, we see firsthand how domestic workers are often underpaid and undervalued despite contributing so much to their employers’ lives.
Overall, Roma is a cinematic masterpiece that tackles critical societal issues with grace and sensitivity. It is an enthralling work of art that will linger with you long after the credits have rolled.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 128
- Release : 1972-03-16
- Genre : Comedy, Drama
- Cast : Peter Gonzales Falcon as Fellini, Age 18, Fiona Florence as Dolores – Young Prostitute, Pia De Doses as Princess Domitilla, Marne Maitland as Underground Guide, Renato Giovannoli as Cardinal Ottaviani
- Crew : Nino Rota as Original Music Composer, Federico Fellini as Screenplay, Federico Fellini as Director, Federico Fellini as Story, Danilo Donati as Production Design
- Popularity 10.45
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : 0
- Company : Les Productions Artistes Associés, Ultra Film
- Summary : A virtually plotless, gaudy, impressionistic portrait of Rome through the eyes of one of its most famous citizens.
- Tagline : The fall of the Roman Empire 1931-1972.
