INSTRUCTIONS NOT INCLUDED

From Mexico comes the surprise comedy-drama of the year, which has broken box-office records in America.

Valentine (Eugenio Derbez) is a playboy and must re-evaluate his life, facing up to his responsibilities when he’s left to raise his illegitimate child. Six years later, Julie (Jessica Lindsey) returns to collect her daughter Maggie (Loreto Peralta) and Valentine’s life is upturned.

Spoken in Spanish and English, this old-fashioned feel-good film has many merits. The chemistry between Derbez and Peralta is effective and the comedy and drama is cleverly intertwined. The slapstick comedy is intermittent and a relief from the highly dramatic scenes.

Storytelling techniques are simplistic and subtitles don’t detract, ensuring original meanings are not lost in translation. The musical score is mesmerizing and successfully reduces the audience to tears in the poignant scenes.

Resounding themes of being ready for what the future holds leads to a most unexpected and tearful ending. (MMo)

****

Until May 8, Palace Verona & Norton Street, $19.50, spanishfilmfestival.com