 With an authentic Hispanic flavor, How to Be a Latin Lover is a delightful movie. I’m giving it a B. After seeing his dad spend his life working full time and gaining nothing, Maximo (played by well-known Hispanic actor, Eugenio Derbez) vows to do something different. He’s going to be Man Candy and marry a rich older woman in order to be cared for. With one signature move, he wins the heart of wealthy Peggy. But after twenty-five years, she falls for a younger man and Maximo is let go with only a suitcase of his clothes.
With nowhere to go, he seeks out his sister (played by Salma Hayek) who he’s ignored. Sara’s husband passed a few years ago and she’s raising her son on her own and trying to juggle a job and motherhood. Adding her selfish brother to her life makes for some hilarious situations as Maximo sets his cap on the grandmother of his nephew’s crush for his next wife.
With many amazing actors and actresses, some we haven’t seen in years such as Raquel Welch and Linda Lavin, How to Be a Latin Lover pokes fun at Maximo as he learns what is really important—family. Twists and turns keep the viewer guessing. Just when you think he’s going to get back in the good graces of his family, he does another silly mistake.
Spanish is spoken throughout the movie but subtitles are shown for those who aren’t fluent. This can pull you from the story but adds an authentic note to the movie which was filmed in partnership with Lionsgate and Telemundo. Also with an amazing soundtrack of Hispanic music, it’s sure to get your feet tapping.
Hugo, Sara’s son steals the movie with his ten-year old charm. He’s a kid who says what he thinks and is seeking a male role model after the death of his father. When he gives his heart to Maximo, your own heart will melt.
This little known movie is funny and heartwarming at the same time. With adult humor, it’s not good for younger audiences. But adults will enjoy it.
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Melissa KeirIt's all about the movies... Archives
January 2020
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