Search - Under the Same Moon on DVD

K. K. (GAMER)
Reviewed on 11/27/2022...

Reading subtitles really took away from this and there was only one scene that was dramatic. The rest was a bore. Avoid!

Bd G. (bd-gold) from HAMDEN, CT
Reviewed on 4/3/2011...

saw this one @ sundance and loved it then,

1 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.

A Timely Topic, An Uplifting Film

Grady Harp | Los Angeles, CA United States | 06/24/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Sensitive director Patricia Riggen has, in LA MISMA LUNA (UNDER THE SAME MOON), succeeded in creating a story about the travails of the illegal immigrants from Mexico that serves as a reminder to all of us that one of the reasons for the obsession to take the risks of crossing the border is an attempt to find a better life. While this story concept is by no means a novel one, writer Ligiah Villalobos has provided a script that avoids taking sides, but instead concentrates on creating wholly believable characters caught in the web of immigration - from both sides of the wall. This little film from Mexico is, above all, a film about love, about courage and about resilience and is portrayed by a very fine cast in every role.



Rosario (Kate del Castillo) is a single mother who crossed the border four years earlier in order to support her young son Carlitos (a superb young actor, Adrian Alonso) and her ailing mother by working double jobs as a housekeeper in Los Angeles. She keeps in touch with Carlitos with weekly phone calls and sends him gifts as well as money and love. When Rosario's mother dies, Carlitos takes life into his own hands and plans to cross the border with a little help from his experience with a wise old lady Coyota (Carmen Salinas) who aids immigrants. With his savings in his backpack and his heart aimed toward Los Angeles he sets out on his journey and is thwarted at every turn. He is picked up by two Hispanic students from the US (America Ferrara and Jesse Garcia) whose attempt to transport Carlitos is halted at the border - with the little Carlitos hidden under the seat of the now towed away car. Carlos escapes from the car in El Paso, meets up with some illegal workers who are arrested, leaving the hidden Carlitos with a reluctant companion Enrique (Eugenio Derbez) who is able to aid Carlitos (reluctantly!) to escape to Los Angeles. Through many 'jobs' and untoward situations Carlitos finally finds his way to the spot where he hopes he will meet his mother.



The rhythms of the cinematography, the sets, the flavors of both sides of the border, and the music that accompanies the film all contribute to making this story real and believable - and VERY touching. While Kate del Castillo is the major star of the film, it is the performance by Adrian Alonso that remains in the mind long after the credits are shown. Some viewers may find this film a bit too 'novella-like', but the magic that Patricia Riggen pulls from her large cast and verismo directing style will touch the hearts of most everyone. A fine little reminder of the other aspects of the Immigration topic! Grady Harp, June 08"

Excelente!

Sylvia Valentin | 04/14/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The performace of Kate Del Castillo , Adrian Alonso "Carlitos" and Eugenio Derbez was flawless. It's a true example of a top quality film with great latino actors. This movie deals with a very highly debated issue in the U.S.: immigration. The story is powerful as it depicts the hardships that immigrants without papers must endure to earn a living in order to support their families back home. It also brings to the forefront how some U.S. employers take advantage of their status and exploit them. It is a "must see" film. You will laugh and you will cry as you experience the resilience of these characters. Bravo!"

Addresses issues in a way that allows a good film to materia

Steve Kuehl | Ben Lomond, CA | 06/19/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The numerous discussions here and at other forums over the feelings/issues covered in the film almost makes one want to steer away from watching this - "another" immigration film. I would hope instead that any movie watcher will see this film anyway and be rewarded with a life affirming family love story.



The performances, graceful music, relevant locales and (sometimes rushed but believable) scenarios fill the story line with the necessary themes to make this an inspirational film. The Superman song is hilarious as I had never heard it before - great lyrics. The most interesting thing about this experience was my 6-year old daughter (who speaks only a few words of Spanish) was completely intrigued by the entire piece. The boy actor is obviously ahead of his years, and his expressions and delivery made my girl realize what was happening without even knowing the full dialogue.



The DVD has a decent transfer, and both docus on the disc are worth watching. Docu #1 is over 30 minutes long covering the creation, inspiration and logistics of making the film. Only after watching it did I realize the power of the mother/son relationship showed in the film, even though they shared no scenes together. Docu #2 reveals the artwork/murals created for the film and in respect to the film throughout the Boyle Heights and neighboring areas. For those that revel in the appreciation of mural artwork and the artists behind them - the DVD would be a must-see just for this.



Putting aside all the political and personal issues being written here and elsewhere, I believe the whole family can sit down and watch this film. No work of fiction/reality can capture all of the complexities brushed upon by this movie, but the heart of the message shines through and will make you feel satisfied in the end."