Acapulco

Acapulco is a delightful comedy series, released on Apple TV+ in 2021. It's a lightly comic, somewhat dramatic, and always entertaining recreation of 1980s Mexico, told from the perspective of its endearing protagonist, Máximo Gallardo. The series is based on the 2017 movie "How to Be a Latin Lover," starring Eugenio Derbez, who serves as the series' narrator and executive producer. The show is predominantly in Spanish, with English subtitles, thereby enhancing its overall authenticity and appeal to audiences looking for genuine international content.

The narrative timeline in Acapulco hops between two distinct periods. It starts in the present day with the older version of the central character, Máximo, elegantly played by Derbez. He nostalgically shares tales from his youth with his nephew Hugo, intending to teach him life lessons indirectly from his experiences. These stories form the basis of flashbacks that transport viewers to 1980s Acapulco, a time of brilliant sunshine, turquoise waters, luxury resorts, and the youthful and optimistic Máximo, convincingly performed by Enrique Arrizon.

During the '80s, Acapulco was known for being a lavish holiday destination attracting the international jet-set, including movie stars, musicians, and the upper echelons of society. This atmosphere is fascinatingly recreated as viewers follow young Máximo, who leaves his tough life in a small village to try his luck in the glamorous world of Acapulco's high-end hotels.

Being the hardworking and unabashed dreamer that he is, Máximo lands a job at the city's most posh resort, "Las Colinas." However, he soon realizes that behind the glittering facade of an opulent life are hidden realities of manipulations, deceit, and hushed secrets. The story humorously captures his interactions with the resort's elite guests and his friendship with the motley crew of employees who come from equally humble backgrounds. Throughout the series, viewers will find Máximo repeatedly embroiled in comical and awkward situations while trying to get by in this high-stakes environment.

An essential component of the series is the relationship between Máximo and his affluent guests, which effectively reflects a significant class divide. This relationship sheds light on the socio-economic contrasts and the stark divide between the abundant lives of the hotel guests and the much humbler existence of the employees who serve them. Yet, despite this divide, the show reminds viewers of the commonality of human emotions and experiences.

Through young Máximo, the show captures the spirit of ambition and resilience. His efforts to navigate the world of the rich and famous act as a metaphor for larger themes like social mobility, aspiration, and the universal desire to belong to the world that lies just beyond our reach.

Acapulco is also a coming-of-age story. It cleverly portrays Máximo's transformation from a naive small-town lad into someone more world-wise. While at times his innocence and ignorance become the source of humor, they also offer poignant commentary on the conflicts and concerns of youth.

Residents and guests at the resort alike are all delightfully colorful characters, each with their quirks and motivations, adding layers to the narrative. The characters' interactions form the core of the series, often with hilarious results. They create a lively and vivacious atmosphere that successfully sucks the viewers into the glamorous and chaotic world of Acapulco.

The series strikingly captures the 1980s aesthetics with incredible attention to detail. The vibrant resort, the extravagant costume design, and the overall mise en scène perfectly reflect the bygone era's exuberance. The use of vibrant colors and musical compositions set the mood and lyrically complement the visuals and tonality of the setting.

In terms of performance, Derbez as the older Máximo is charming and persuasive. His character adds a dash of sarcasm and wisdom to the story. Arrizon, on the other hand, infuses young Máximo with the right amount of innocence, energy, and enthusiasm that make him instantly likable. The rest of the ensemble, including the resort's employees and guests, brilliantly contribute to making Acapulco a flavorful, cheerful, and unique viewing experience.

In essence, Acapulco is an enjoyable slice of life show that oscillates between humor and emotion and successfully brings out the poignant contradictions of life. It's a brilliant concoction of comedy, coming-of-age drama, class tensions, romantic entanglements, and life lessons, all set against the nostalgic backdrop of 1980s Mexico. This Apple TV+ offering is certainly worth the watch if you're in the mood for some light-hearted humor, 80s nostalgia, and a charming, wholesome narrative.