andPOP » Gael Garcia Bernal

Movie Review: The Limits Of Control

Ilan Mester — Fri, 22 May 2009 04:04:14 +0000

In “The Limits of Control,” Tilda Swinton’s character says something along the lines of: good films are those that resemble dreams you’re not sure you really had. That’s exactly what this movie was: a film I wasn’t sure I really saw.

“The Limits of Control” tells the story of a reserved loner (Isaach De Bankolé) and his bizarre journey across Spain, where he attempts to complete an illegal mission. Throughout the film, Bankolé meets a range of different people who help him complete his job. If this sounds vague, that’s because this film is sort of vague. But the performances are unique, to say the least.

For example, it wouldn’t be surprising if Bankolé, the protagonist, had give or take 40 lines throughout the entire film (including one-liners), which is unusual for most big-name productions. That being said, he pulls off an in-depth character who practices tai chi every morning and always asks for two expressos in separate cups. These little details add depth to all the characters in this movie with little dialogue.

But to be fair, the film’s director and writer Jim Jarmusch had a stellar supporting cast that can pull off a movie with little dialogue, including two-time Oscar nominee John Hurt, funny-man Bill Murray, Gael García Bernal (Blindness, The Motorcycle Diaries) and Academy Award Winner Tilda Swinton at his disposition. Unfortunately, many of these actors appear in only two or even just one scene.

Still, Jarmusch deserves a big kudos for creating a flick that isn’t a remake of a remake, or a sequel to a prequel in a remake-sequel era. This film is undeniably original, but also undeniably bizarre and random at times.

It’s bizarre to see a character who is literally credited as “Nude” (Paz de la Huerta) remain naked throughout the entire movie (although it definitely isn’t a bad thing). And her purpose to the film, along with some other characters remains a random mystery.

Then again, the phrase “reality is arbitrary” is mentioned in this movie — and it’s there for a reason. “The Limits of Control” isn’t a laugh-out-loud type of movie like “I Love You, Man,” so don’t be surprised if you don’t laugh, even once. It’s also not an action-packed thriller such as “X-Men Origins: Wolverine,” so don’t expect to hear any gunshots or see stunning special effects (besides beautiful Spain).

And be prepared for bizarreness, uniqueness and randomness. If you’re bored of the usual, go see the unusual: “Limits of Control”.

Gael Garcia Bernal Is Father-To-Be

andPOP Staff — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 13:54:46 +0000

Gael Garcia Bernal is going to be a daddy.

The 29-year-old actor confirmed Wednesday that he is expecting his first child with Argentine actress Dolores Fonzi, 30.

“This statement is to say that, after so much speculation and comments, the actors Dolores Fonzi and Gael Garcia Bernal are indeed expecting a baby at the start of next year,” said Bernal in a statement.

The couple first met in 2001 on the set of “Private Lives”, but only began dating last year. Bernal was previously in a long-term on-off relationship with Natalie Portman.

Bernal is best known for his roles in Y Tu Mamá También and The Motorcycle Diaries.

Y Tu Mama Tambien Star Becomes Papa Tambien

andPOP Staff — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:48:45 +0000

Gael Garcia Bernal is expecting his first child with fellow actor, Dolores Fonzi.

Bernal is most known for his roles in Y Tu Mama Tamiben, Babel and The Motorcycle Diaries. Bernal first met Fonzi in 2001 on the set of Private Lives, an Argentine film.

The baby is due at the start of next year.

Bernal can be seen the upcoming Fernando Meirelles directed drama, Blindness, alongside Julianne Moore in September.