Becloud

Becloud is a 2009 Mexican drama film directed by Alejandro Gerber Bicecci that features an ensemble cast which includes Marta Aura, Sandra Carbonell, and Sonia Couoh among others. The narrative oscillates between charming childhood jests and adeptly captured adult whims, delivering a unique, mesmerizing storyline that effortlessly transitions between timeframes.

The film is set in Mexico City and is an indirect commentary on the social fabric of an urban Mexican society from the past till the present day. Becloud paints an intricate picture of the city's social and economic disparity, while offering an immersive exploration of love, friendship, ordeals, and the inevitability of change.

The narrative unfolds via three interconnected vignettes dripped into the past and present. To begin with, we are introduced to three childhood friends: Andrés, Felipe, and José- self-named as the "Terrible Trio". Their innocent bond and a shared secret are front and center of the first part of the story.

Andrés is an intelligent and creative boy, Felipe demonstrates a more adventurous spirit, while José is gifted with an innate musical talent and a peaceful nature. The trio discovers a charred photograph of a beautiful woman marking the genesis of their shared secret. This photograph becomes the pivot around which the characters' lives revolve, bounding them together in a mysterious yet strong bond. However, a tragic event takes place leaving a lasting imprint on their friendship.

The narrative shifts between various timeframes, delving into the stories of the boys as grown-ups. Andrés is trapped in a monotonous job and struggles with relationship issues. Felipe serves in a car wash business he co-owns, juggling his personal and professional life, while José has grown into a melancholic music teacher possessing a deep sense of solitude. Their current life circumstances reflect how a past secret is shaping their present and future.

Following this, the movie introduces Ana, a young and impulsive woman portrayed by captivating actress Sandra Carbonell. Living in a water-deprived slum, she becomes instrumental in unfolding the secret that the boys had kept hidden for years.

Veteran actress Marta Aura brings a voice to the silent woman in the charred photograph. Her profound performance instills essence into the mysterious figure who holds the boy's lives intertwined. Aura successfully adds depth to her character, pulling off a performance that remains memorable even after her screen time is over.

Sonia Couoh, on the other hand, gives a heart-touching performance as Miriam, the loving yet stern mother of Andrés. The depth of her emotions, the silent resilience, and the affectionate objectives towards her son provide some of the most tender moments in the movie that touch the heart of the audience.

Alejandro Gerber Bicecci’s direction amalgamates with the brilliant performance of the ensemble cast and the gripping narrative to deliver an impactful cinematic experience. Bicecci uses a non-linear storyline, interspersing past and present to delve into the urban and emotional realities of Mexico City.

Cinematographer Alejandro Cantú’s effective shots of pseudo-rural areas and slums construct an authentic representation of Mexico's urban struggles- an interesting contrast to the city's high-rise buildings and glossy allure. The socio-economic issues about water shortages, deforestation, and urban transformation are subtly addressed, providing a socio-political backdrop to the personal narratives.

The score of the film blends with the narrative seamlessly, working as a resonance that uplifts the emotional landscape of the movie. The use of diegetic music, mostly through José’s accordion, adds a haunting melancholy to the film while also being a storytelling component.

In conclusion, Becloud showcases a unique narrative style. It boasts a splendid combination of strong and compelling performances, an engaging storyline, excellent cinematography, and haunting music. The narrative's smart intertwining of past and present, with the charred photograph as its pivot, provides a deeper understanding of the series of effects childhood experiences might have on one’s adult life. The film provides a profound experience to viewers while surfacing largely unsaid issues of Mexico city's privation-stricken areas. This picture is a perfect blend of personal drama and social commentary, making it a must-watch for all drama enthusiasts.