Choele

Choele is a touching and understated Argentinian film from 2013, directed by Juan Sasiaín. The movie tells the story of an unlikely friendship that develops between two lonely people from different generations: Roberto (Leonardo Sbaraglia) and Valeria (Guadalupe Docampo).

Roberto is a middle-aged man who works as a mechanic in a small town in Patagonia. He lives alone in a modest house, surrounded by mountains and beautiful landscapes, but he is a solitary figure who struggles to connect with others. His life is devoid of romance and adventure until he meets Valeria, a young girl who has just arrived in town.

Valeria is a teenager who has moved to Patagonia with her father, who is a geologist. She is a talented musician who plays the guitar and has a beautiful voice. Valeria is trying to adapt to a new place and make friends, but she finds it challenging to fit in with the local kids who don't share her interests. She is a dreamer with a wild imagination, and she spends most of her time creating fictional stories about herself and the world around her.

Roberto and Valeria first meet when she crashes her bike outside his garage. Roberto offers to fix her bicycle and asks about her father, who he knows from the local pub. Valeria is shy at first, but she soon starts opening up to Roberto and talking about her passion for music. Roberto is impressed by Valeria's talent and her fearless attitude towards life, and he begins to see her as a kindred spirit.

As the days go by, Roberto and Valeria become closer. They spend time together, exploring the wilderness and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. They talk about music and share their dreams and aspirations. Roberto helps Valeria record some of her songs, and he even accompanies her on the guitar. They also bond over their love for American muscle cars, which they restore together.

Their friendship is heartwarming and profound, but it is not without its challenges. Roberto is a man who has been hurt in the past, and he has a hard time trusting people. He is also conflicted about his feelings for Valeria, who is much younger than him. Valeria, on the other hand, is a girl who is struggling to find her place in the world. She is searching for love and validation, and she sees Roberto as a father figure she never had.

Choele is a beautiful and poetic film that captures the essence of human connection. It is a story about finding hope and inspiration in the most unexpected places. The movie is filled with stunning visuals and gorgeous music, which add to the overall mood of melancholy and longing. The performances by the actors, especially Leonardo Sbaraglia and Guadalupe Docampo, are outstanding. They bring a sense of honesty and authenticity to their characters, making their relationship feel real and meaningful.

In conclusion, Choele is a must-see film for anyone who appreciates art-house cinema and humanistic storytelling. It's a movie that will touch your heart and leave you with a sense of wonder and warmth. The film is a testament to the power of friendship and the beauty of life, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.