-Written by Kyle Bain.
After the death of her brother, Director Robie Flores travels back to Mexico to celebrate him, his life, and his legacy. Flores attempts to tap into something mysterious and emotionally relevant in The In Between, trying to express to the world just how important her brother is and the mark that he’s left behind.
Flores touches on the relationship between Mexico and the United States, the role that it plays in the individuals’ lives that live so close to the border–but she seems to take a more positive approach toward expressing this relationship. It’s not the tired narrative of negativity that surrounds the border issues, but rather on the opportunities that their proximity to the US presents them. The In Between remains interestingly positive throughout its majority (at least in regard to this issue), and I think that’s the key to its success, to its ability to appeal to viewers.
While the positivity is appealing, while it does work to reel in viewers, I think that The In Between struggles to reach out to a wider audience. The In Between is a love letter to Flores’ brother; a touching sentiment, but not a film for the rest of the world. I’m not entirely sure what Flores’ intentions were when creating this film, other than to pay homage to her brother, but if she had something else in mind, she doesn’t accomplish it. Again, what that thing is, I’m not sure–but I didn’t take anything away from The In Between. I was ultimately left to my own devices, and I wish that some bit of knowledge had been emparted before the film’s conclusion.
Additionally, there’s not enough here. There isn’t enough information to keep viewers fully engaged, and I most definitely struggled to pay attention throughout. The In Between ultimately lacks substance, failing to branch out beyond her brother really. Sure, there’s a bit more; but the positivity can only take the film so far.
Robie’s vision isn’t clear, not beyond her brother’s legacy. I found myself becoming bored throughout the course of the film, struggling to dive deeper into the film and its story. Don’t get me wrong, the sentiment behind The In Between is impressive. To travel between countries in order to ensure that the legacy of a loved one lives on, that’s dedication, that’s genuine love. I didn’t feel that there was enough substance in this regard, however, and the film faltered as a result of its lack of substance.
Directed by Robie Flores.
Starring Ayleen Cardenas, Paola Chavarria, Frida Correa, Julissa De Luna, Emma Alicia Enriquez, etc.
6/10 = WATCH IT FOR FREE
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