Taco Shop

Taco Shop, released in 2018, is a comedy-drama film directed by Joaquin Perea. The movie stars Tyler Posey, Rafael Agustin, Carlos Alazraqui, and others. It is set in California and showcases the cultural diversity of the region.

The movie follows the story of Smokes, a young street artist, who manages his family's taco shop, Taco Dollar. Smokes' dream is to create an expansive mural on the side of the taco shop. His quest to find funding leads him to the world of underground street art, where he meets the talented and mysterious artist, Nacho.

The movie explores the conflicts between tradition and modernization, as Smokes' father, Enrique, wants him to continue the family business while Smokes wants to pursue his passion for art. Alongside this, it examines the characters' relationships and personal struggles, such as Smokes' father's cultural identity crisis and Nacho's difficulties in finding acceptance for his experimental art.

As the story progresses, Nacho and Smokes form a bond, and together, they hatch a plan to raise funds for the mural. Nacho introduces Smokes to a group of underground artists who use their talents to solve everyday problems with hilarious results. The tight-knit community of artists helps Smokes on his journey to find sponsorship for the mural.

The movie presents a message of unity and coming together, as people of different backgrounds and cultures work together towards a common goal. It showcases the power of art as a medium for self-expression and activism.

Taco Shop also touches on the issue of gentrification and cultural appropriation. The characters face challenges from outsiders who want to replace their culture and traditions with more mainstream ones. It challenges the audience to rethink their preconceptions and prejudices.

The acting in Taco Shop is noteworthy, with Tyler Posey portraying Smokes' character with raw emotion and humor. The supporting cast, including Carlos Alazraqui, Felipe Esparza, and Paula Jai Parker, deliver their roles with finesse, adding layers of depth to the movie.

Director Joaquin Perea does an excellent job of capturing the essence of Southern California's diverse culture. The cinematography is well executed, with scenes showcasing the murals and street art of the area. The movie's soundtrack, composed by Joseph Trapanese, keeps the audience engaged throughout the movie.

In conclusion, Taco Shop is a genuine and humorous movie, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of Southern California. It celebrates diversity and creativity while raising questions about the threat of gentrification and cultural appropriation. The movie's message is powerful and relevant, and it is worth watching.