25 reviews
On a warm summer evening and about an eclipse , a loving couple, a plastic surgeon (Eduard Fernández) and Eva (Belen Rueda) , a therapist is expecting his long-lasting friends to share a pleasant evening over dinner at their luxurious apartment . They have a 16-year-old daughter Sofía (Beatriz Olivares ) whose relationship with Eva is under strain . Everything is in order: the first course is ready, the roast is in the oven and the table is set. Without a doubt, this is going to be a gathering of true friends and the waiting comes to an end when the first couple arrives. The bell rings and it is Antonio (Ernesto Alterio in real life married to Juana Acosta) , Ana (Juana Acosta) , the newly-wed Eduardo (Eduardo Noriega) and Blanca (Dafne Fernández ) . And followed subsequently the only one missing who is Pepe (Pepón Nieto ) , their friend who is still single . Pepe doesn't bring his new girlfriend with him, which is to the discontent of the rest, since none of them have been met her yet, and there is always a reason behind.
Before long, the group is complete and without any delay, they begin the feast. Surely, this is a nice but somewhat usual dinner, when suddenly someone makes a proposition : to place their mobile phones on the table and like a Russian roulette, whatever arrives (texts, WhatsApp messages, calls) they would share it with the others. Clearly, this uncommon truth or dare game has no point among friends who share everything with each other, nevertheless, when the phones start ringing, who will be the one with the sweatiest palms?
The story takes place in Madrid , present day , altogether restricted in one night , among seven tight-knitted friends, three couples and a recent divorcé , Pepe , during a dinner party hosted by Alfonso , magnificently played by Eduard Fernández , as a cosmetic surgeon , and his beloved wife , splendidly performed by Belén Rueda , and dealing with a twisted game , as whoever receives a phone-call, a message whether it is a text message will have to read or hear it . De la Iglesia's bewildering comedy ¨Perfectos desconocidos¨ blends intriguing elements with humor , tongue-in-cheek and thrills ; so, the tone of the film is light-hearted as well as stirring . The film starts at a slow pace, and it took a while to catch me , when it did it was fantastic . Very amusing and twisted film concerning about seven long-time friends get together for a dinner , then they decide to share with each other the content of every text message, email and phone call they receive, as many secrets start to unveil , the equilibrium trembles and things go wrong .The brilliant beginning idea is developed in a marvelous crescendo that turns into rapidly the situation from a nice dinner with old friends into a bloody battleground that reveals the surprising secrets . As well as the darkest secrets are disclosed to all of them and then awry consequences take place , some are cunningly revealed only to the eyes of spectators . A wonderful and talented plethora of actors, the mainstays of current Spanish cinema, implements a totally suspenseful melodrama interspersed with twists , turns , top-shelf comedic flair and naturalistic theatrics . It also contains a final twist in the screenplay that I will not reveal . It's well acted and smartly written.The movie is both funny and dramatic and so is the bitter-sweet ending .
It packs an adequate and moving musical score by Víctor Reyes . And a colorful and appropriate cinematography by Ángel Amorós . The motion picture was masterfully written (along with his usual screenwriter Jorge Guerricaechevarría) and directed by De La Iglesia , well known as the Spanish king of black comedy . He's a cool director has got much success as ¨Accion Mutante¨ ,¨Dying of laughter¨ or ¨Muertos De Risa¨ , ¨Baby's room¨ , ¨Oxford murders¨ , ¨Balada Triste De Una Trompeta¨ and ¨Perdita Durango¨ is probably the weirdest Javier Bardem film ever made . And , of course , ¨Day of the beast¨ and ¨La Comunidad¨ obtained the unanimous praise of both the critics and the public and result to be a lot of fun¨, especially for those who enjoy surrealist humor , they won several Goya prizes and and resulted to be a turning point in his meteoric career ; from then on he became his own producer, beginning with '800 bullets' (2002) through the Pánico Films company . Winner of several Goyas (Spanish Oscars), however his movies have not yet reached box office in USA, but he has strong followers , as his films have a kind of comic edge to them . Nonsense, ridicule , laughters , absurdity , disturbing scenes and many other issues ; you can find everything in this flick . ¨Perfectos desconocidos¨ captures the essence of the best Alex De La Iglesia, a filmmaker who, at this point in his own story, is respected and admired worldwide and has the most committed fans in the film universe . This is without a doubt an enjoyable movie to be enjoyed for comedy buffs and Alex De Iglesia fans .
The story takes place in Madrid , present day , altogether restricted in one night , among seven tight-knitted friends, three couples and a recent divorcé , Pepe , during a dinner party hosted by Alfonso , magnificently played by Eduard Fernández , as a cosmetic surgeon , and his beloved wife , splendidly performed by Belén Rueda , and dealing with a twisted game , as whoever receives a phone-call, a message whether it is a text message will have to read or hear it . De la Iglesia's bewildering comedy ¨Perfectos desconocidos¨ blends intriguing elements with humor , tongue-in-cheek and thrills ; so, the tone of the film is light-hearted as well as stirring . The film starts at a slow pace, and it took a while to catch me , when it did it was fantastic . Very amusing and twisted film concerning about seven long-time friends get together for a dinner , then they decide to share with each other the content of every text message, email and phone call they receive, as many secrets start to unveil , the equilibrium trembles and things go wrong .The brilliant beginning idea is developed in a marvelous crescendo that turns into rapidly the situation from a nice dinner with old friends into a bloody battleground that reveals the surprising secrets . As well as the darkest secrets are disclosed to all of them and then awry consequences take place , some are cunningly revealed only to the eyes of spectators . A wonderful and talented plethora of actors, the mainstays of current Spanish cinema, implements a totally suspenseful melodrama interspersed with twists , turns , top-shelf comedic flair and naturalistic theatrics . It also contains a final twist in the screenplay that I will not reveal . It's well acted and smartly written.The movie is both funny and dramatic and so is the bitter-sweet ending .
It packs an adequate and moving musical score by Víctor Reyes . And a colorful and appropriate cinematography by Ángel Amorós . The motion picture was masterfully written (along with his usual screenwriter Jorge Guerricaechevarría) and directed by De La Iglesia , well known as the Spanish king of black comedy . He's a cool director has got much success as ¨Accion Mutante¨ ,¨Dying of laughter¨ or ¨Muertos De Risa¨ , ¨Baby's room¨ , ¨Oxford murders¨ , ¨Balada Triste De Una Trompeta¨ and ¨Perdita Durango¨ is probably the weirdest Javier Bardem film ever made . And , of course , ¨Day of the beast¨ and ¨La Comunidad¨ obtained the unanimous praise of both the critics and the public and result to be a lot of fun¨, especially for those who enjoy surrealist humor , they won several Goya prizes and and resulted to be a turning point in his meteoric career ; from then on he became his own producer, beginning with '800 bullets' (2002) through the Pánico Films company . Winner of several Goyas (Spanish Oscars), however his movies have not yet reached box office in USA, but he has strong followers , as his films have a kind of comic edge to them . Nonsense, ridicule , laughters , absurdity , disturbing scenes and many other issues ; you can find everything in this flick . ¨Perfectos desconocidos¨ captures the essence of the best Alex De La Iglesia, a filmmaker who, at this point in his own story, is respected and admired worldwide and has the most committed fans in the film universe . This is without a doubt an enjoyable movie to be enjoyed for comedy buffs and Alex De Iglesia fans .
I didn't see the original but this movie is intense and twisted. Very good movie until just some minutes before final, but it wasn't easy give an exit for this mess.
- henaog2000
- Jan 2, 2019
- Permalink
It was an entertaining movie but the plot was predictable to some extent. And the ending was kind of disappointing.
I liked this film when I first watched it, only now I found out it's just a copy (almost line to line) from his Italian counterpart.
- tsanglouisa
- Jan 27, 2020
- Permalink
The plot is simple, but funny. The movie shows how complicated our ordinary lives can be and how technology has taken center-stage of our day-to-day lives as well as become tools for deceit and betrayal.
- flores-81341
- Aug 27, 2020
- Permalink
"Perfectos Desconocidos" is a Spanish remake of the Italian movie "Perfetti sconosciuti"; both have been very successful in its own country; but as I am from Spanish origin; I prefer the Spanish one.
Seven friends everyone with his own crisis reunites for a dinner in a house. Somebody proposes a game; left all cell phone on the tables so everybody can see secrets of the others.
Things get unexpectedly complicated as a secret of each person is being revealed.
There are outstanding comedy moments and suspenseful as well. One particular conversation between a father and her daughter carriers more tenderness than any flick released in 2017.
This kind of movie can only works with outstanding actors; and all of them are.
It will be unfair to point on one in specific since this is coral movie; however Eduard Fernandez and Ernesto Alterio are both commanding.
In brief; it is perhaps the best 2017 comedy; with the Italian original being the best of 2016.
Perfectos desconocidos might not be known everywhere but in it's country of origin, Spain, it had a huge succes. And I can see why. The story is entertaining to watch with some good funny moments. It's a remake of an Italian movie, Perfetti Sconosciuti, that also did very well in their country. I didn't watch that one, because I live in Spain and I thought it would be good to improve my Spanish language so I chose the Spanish version. The cast is well chosen, with some well known actors from Spain like Eduard Fernández and Belén Rueda. The story is quite simple, all guests lay their mobile phones on the table during a meal and everyone can see or hear the incoming messages or calls. What follows is of course calls or messages that need explanations to their partners, as some guests have different secrets. Certainly worth a watch.
- deloudelouvain
- May 8, 2018
- Permalink
"Perfectos Desconocidos", directed by Álex de la Iglesia, is an intriguing Spanish comedy-drama that explores the limits of privacy and intimacy in the digital age. The plot revolves around a group of friends who meet for a dinner and decide to play a dangerous game: share all the messages and calls they receive on their mobile phones. What begins as an innocent exercise soon turns into a revelation of dark secrets and betrayals between the characters.
The film's premise is witty and contemporary, addressing relevant themes about communication in the age of social media and the lack of privacy in an increasingly digitally connected world. Álex de la Iglesia manages to maintain a perfect balance between humor and drama, taking the viewer on an emotional journey as the characters face the consequences of revealing their deepest secrets.
The cast gives solid performances, highlighting the chemistry between the actors who play the friends, who go from laughter and camaraderie to tension and conflict as the story progresses. The film not only entertains, but also invites us to reflect on the authenticity of human relationships and the impact of technology on our lives.
Visually, the film makes the most of the dinner setting, creating an intimate, claustrophobic atmosphere that intensifies the drama and comedy of the situation. Álex de la Iglesia's direction stands out for its distinctive style and his ability to capture the dynamics between characters with a sharp and insightful sensitivity.
In conclusion, "Perfectos Desconocidos" is a film that not only entertains but also challenges the viewer to reflect on the importance of honesty and privacy in our personal relationships. With a clever plot, solid performances and skillful direction, this film is a standout example of contemporary Spanish cinema that is worth watching.
The film's premise is witty and contemporary, addressing relevant themes about communication in the age of social media and the lack of privacy in an increasingly digitally connected world. Álex de la Iglesia manages to maintain a perfect balance between humor and drama, taking the viewer on an emotional journey as the characters face the consequences of revealing their deepest secrets.
The cast gives solid performances, highlighting the chemistry between the actors who play the friends, who go from laughter and camaraderie to tension and conflict as the story progresses. The film not only entertains, but also invites us to reflect on the authenticity of human relationships and the impact of technology on our lives.
Visually, the film makes the most of the dinner setting, creating an intimate, claustrophobic atmosphere that intensifies the drama and comedy of the situation. Álex de la Iglesia's direction stands out for its distinctive style and his ability to capture the dynamics between characters with a sharp and insightful sensitivity.
In conclusion, "Perfectos Desconocidos" is a film that not only entertains but also challenges the viewer to reflect on the importance of honesty and privacy in our personal relationships. With a clever plot, solid performances and skillful direction, this film is a standout example of contemporary Spanish cinema that is worth watching.
- danielgomezzz
- Jul 15, 2024
- Permalink
The film depicts about effect of the mobile and it won...castings are awesome...
- kamalbeeee
- Apr 21, 2020
- Permalink
Seven lifelong friends meet for dinner, with the rule that all messages and phone calls they receive will be public to the rest of the table, revealing secrets that mess up their lives.
I was unaware of the fact that there are more than six films of different nationalities based on the original from 2016, I had already watched the 2018 French-Belgian version, which, opportunely, was very fun and charming, so much so that it started monotonous and boring, it gradually gained good contours in the As the secrets revealed, commas and so many secrets, a risky joke, a banal, even silly outcome, the message that remains is that the best secret is to keep them secret, well hidden...
I was unaware of the fact that there are more than six films of different nationalities based on the original from 2016, I had already watched the 2018 French-Belgian version, which, opportunely, was very fun and charming, so much so that it started monotonous and boring, it gradually gained good contours in the As the secrets revealed, commas and so many secrets, a risky joke, a banal, even silly outcome, the message that remains is that the best secret is to keep them secret, well hidden...
- RosanaBotafogo
- Apr 15, 2023
- Permalink
This film is enjoyable. The story is good, but the end... Meh. I didn't like it.
But is a enjoyable film, like i said.
I think one of the best spanish's movies.
If you want to watch a good movie just for enjoy this is your movie, it's not bad.
7.3/10
- benjamincepeda
- Nov 7, 2020
- Permalink
Cheap, ugly, an overall disgusting remake. Do yourself a favor and stick to the italian original.
- lookattheowls
- Feb 21, 2019
- Permalink
The mexican movie Perfectos desconocidos is in theatres now, this movie is Spain. Check this please.
Once this movie started, we could immediately realize that the female cast of the woman who took off her underwear was not as good and attractive than who was playing the same role in the Italian version. She's somewhat not eye-appealing either. The other female actresses and the male ones were okay and similar to those who played the same roles in the Italian version. But this Spanish version got a better cellphones arrangements, they were evenly placed on the ROUND dinner table and even had a scene of those phones were placed around a big dish, unlike the Italian poor arrangement, everybody still held onto their own phones around a counter-height rectangular dining table, causing resistance and unwillingness to expose their incoming messages.
One thing that I do not quite understand is why you have to follow the exact storyline instead of adding some plots and scenarios closer to your own country's culture and customs? Why you have to faithfully the original one? This is why after watched the Italian version, I almost lost interest in watching the almost the same or even exactly the same version from Spain.
But the major letdown is the not quite smart choice of the female cast as I just mentioned above.
One thing that I do not quite understand is why you have to follow the exact storyline instead of adding some plots and scenarios closer to your own country's culture and customs? Why you have to faithfully the original one? This is why after watched the Italian version, I almost lost interest in watching the almost the same or even exactly the same version from Spain.
But the major letdown is the not quite smart choice of the female cast as I just mentioned above.
- housearrestedever
- Dec 25, 2022
- Permalink
This is a text book black comedy, with excellent writing and acting. The movie creates believable tension withing a realistic group of friends. It plants the seeds for an amazing finalle, and then the decision they took was the worst possible. It makes the movie reatroactively bad and its a shame. The movie is great, but the ending a disaster. I decided to give it a five then.
- educallejero
- Aug 10, 2018
- Permalink
It loses the magic of the italian original, for me, it's only worth a watch if you haven't seen the 2016 Perfetti Sconosciuti.
- salvatorecadetto
- Nov 19, 2018
- Permalink
As my headline stated, the original Italian version is far far better than this Spanish one. Somehow, the chemistry between the Spanish actors in this movie is just not there for me.
Go watch the original Italian version, if you haven't done that.
Go watch the original Italian version, if you haven't done that.
- hollandvillage
- May 16, 2019
- Permalink
Obvs one of them is supposed to be younger (as she is the outsider of a group of friends from school) but the age difference is strong with this one.
Also, the only thing that can come out of a game like that is infidelity and I'm pretty sure that they could've at least cover different ways of it.
Of course this is a remake and you can't properly judge it but the eclipse part is ridiculous!
Lastly, everything stays the same, what's the point of making a movie like this if everyone is gonna continue to do the same stuff? Where's the development?
- verohmarin
- Dec 30, 2018
- Permalink
- bololoiionut
- Jan 2, 2019
- Permalink
- minimaster-67734
- May 17, 2020
- Permalink
I'm not sure what's more painful: the fact that the rapidity of the characters' Spanish speech makes it feel like you're watching the film at 1.25x speed making you miss a lot of important details and nuances, the fact that they were able to reduce the story's most dramatically powerful moment to a half-sentence dropped casually, or the fact that the whole plot was deflated and marginalized with this nonsensical, forced CGI blood moon mystical element.
I've seen very few films this unnecessary lately. Do yourself a favour and watch the Italian version instead, and leave this one alone. When an adaptation takes when it wants to give, you know you've wasted another hour and a half of your life.
I've seen very few films this unnecessary lately. Do yourself a favour and watch the Italian version instead, and leave this one alone. When an adaptation takes when it wants to give, you know you've wasted another hour and a half of your life.
And this is why I don't want to watch spanish movies anymore. I see it has received 15 awards and 2 prizes... What a shame!!! The acting is really poor; the script and dialogues are stupid. Not worth at all.
- gonzalogil-22229
- Apr 23, 2022
- Permalink
The entire film is a copy of the original film except for the ending.
Acting, desperate, same words as in the original film.
I have nothing nice to say about this movie, except boring, boring. Where did this movie get its high rating from? And numerous awards, I don't want to watch this garbage ever again.
The complete original until the very end and then the last 10 minutes is the stupidest thing I've seen in the history of a movie. The twist is terrible as is the whole movie.
Maybe this movie would make some sense if it wasn't a copy of the original, maybe this movie could be watched without first watching the original, it's all just maybe. After the original version, you have to skip this, you get the same thing, with a lot of bad acting and stupid and not with an understandable ending.absolutely desperate movie 1/10.
Acting, desperate, same words as in the original film.
I have nothing nice to say about this movie, except boring, boring. Where did this movie get its high rating from? And numerous awards, I don't want to watch this garbage ever again.
The complete original until the very end and then the last 10 minutes is the stupidest thing I've seen in the history of a movie. The twist is terrible as is the whole movie.
Maybe this movie would make some sense if it wasn't a copy of the original, maybe this movie could be watched without first watching the original, it's all just maybe. After the original version, you have to skip this, you get the same thing, with a lot of bad acting and stupid and not with an understandable ending.absolutely desperate movie 1/10.