Fernando Frias De La Parra’s Rezeta is a wonderfully shot love story about an Albanian model moving to Mexico City in order to further her career. We journey with Rezeta through the streets of this foreign place, as she struggles with her new career and the various relationships she forms along the way. It doesn’t necessarily bring anything new to the table, but it’s an entertaining and enjoyable ride nonetheless.
Comprised of all non-actors, the film presents everyone as caricatures of themselves, which help add to the realism and natural feel of the film itself. This method often presents a problem in that the acting isn’t very good, however everyone does a commendable job and the conversations feel organic and unscripted.
After a few unsuccessful relationships, Rezeta (Rezeta Veliu) becomes romantically involved with a close friend, Alex (Roger Mendoza), who she met shortly after arriving in the country. While the two seem to be polar opposites of one another, she a prim and proper model, and he a grungy looking punk rocker, they form a passionate love for each other.
They eventually move in together and, like many relationships, things begin to get rocky. Alex has little interest in going to the various events and parties Rezeta attends, and becomes irritated and jealous of the men who constantly hit on her. A rift begins to form between them until it seems that the end may be near.
The film is shot on glorious 35mm, capturing the beauty and grittiness of Mexico City. As Rezeta explores the city, we too are experiencing it with her and feeling the excitement of being in a new place. Along with this excitement however, comes the burden of a language barrier and the helplessness of not knowing where to go or how to get there.
The highlight of the film is the character of Rezeta herself. More than just a airhead model, her light, fun personality makes her a joy to watch on screen, not simply because she’s beautiful. She’s a strong woman who knows what she wants and marches to the beat of her own drum. She valiantly defies the super model stereotype by constantly showing intelligence and compassion. As an actor, she proves this as well, showing a wide range of emotions, doing so convincingly and naturally.
Rezeta is a light romantic drama that lacks originality, but still manages to be a compelling and satisfying story. The characters are interesting and well developed and the cinematography is well done and compliments the locale. For those looking for an unHollywood relationship flick, Rezeta is one to check out.
