Solid Story

I felt the writing of this film was the real star. We didn't focus on blood, punches, and elaborate make up. Instead, you had to fill in your own blanks when you see the dinner splattered on the wall, medical records listing extensive of accounts of "accidents", or how a soccer ball becomes a punishment device.

I have seen many abusive DV stories but I haven't seen many like this. From his first line, Antonio is about control and domination. If you watch this film, when he speaks, the focus is always on himself. Even during therapy, he cannot put anyone before him. This guy is a great example of how a sociopath experiences life. In all of his scenes, Antonio has to win.

For me, the story built a false sense of sympathy for Antonio. We see him attend group therapy but in reality his therapy is nothing more than a front. I don't buy for a second he changed for hersake, his son, or himself. He wanted to "convince" Pilar he has the "potential" to change. He gives the usual song and dance to try to win her heart back and at first he suceeds.

In this story, we too get sweet talked with the idea this man is actually trying to "change". And like an abusive relationship, we are jilted every now and then by his erratic behavior. It's not until a very humulitating attack, we realize and see for ourselves, the only thing Antonio has learned from therapy was how to conceal his anger behind a very thin mask. We see and so does Pilar, this man has not changed.

This film deals with a very old and common issue. Based on its dialogue and story, I would say this is a pretty accurate window into the world of domestic violence. Sure, I've seen this film before but it gives a slightly different angle of how well the cycle of abuse can function even under the guise of "counseling". This film is definitely NOT a waste of time.