Review of Instructions Not Included

INSTRUCTIONS NOT INCLUDED is a heartwarming story about love and what it means to be family, especially when it doesn't exactly look like what you'd expect. I haven't watched too many Spanish-language films, but for the most part I haven't been disappointed. This falls right in line with the others. Eugenio Derbez directed and starred in this, and the best part of this movie was the chemistry between him and his on screen daughter, played by Loreto Peralta. The relationship they portrayed was very real, believable and touching. There was also lots of humor, even though the movie isn't a straight comedy (the movie was slightly mis-marketed). For the most part the performances are OK, with Eugenio Derbez being the standout. Loreto Peralta also gave quite a good performance for a child actor, although her Spanish delivery was better than her English delivery. Still, despite so much to recommend about this picture there are a few missteps along the way. For one, the pacing is off in some parts and the movie goes on a little too long, though it never quite wears out its welcome. There is a sequence/plot point late in the movie that could have been omitted. Also, at some points it seems like they are trying too hard to be sentimental. However, there is one surprise (which I won't spoil)) that is hinted at early on, but the reveal still caught me off-guard. The movie also ends rather abruptly shortly after this point, which was kind of odd. Still, I challenge anyone watching this to not be moved in some way. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by this film and see no reason why any serious movie-goer wouldn't get some enjoyment out of it as well.