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Reviews
The Ranfla (2016)
American Me meets Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?
As shorts go, this little gem is a guilty pleasure. Danny De La Paz (Puppet in American Me) and Daniel Villarreal (Little Puppet) play themselves as two Chicano Cinema Icons about to set off to do a "meet and greet" somewhere in Aztlan. The issue here is the type of vehicle chosen for transport and the way in which it may or may not reflect on their individual and collective reputations. From the opening shots in which we see Daniel waiting for his partner on the sidewalk in front of his house standing next to some boxes marked AMERICAN ME, we know this is a comedy. Daniel in close-up is obviously older than he was in the film. Danny arrives and gets out of the car, only he isn't wearing his trademark hat. In fact he isn't wearing anything on his head at all...including hair. He too looks much older. The lighting is a bit harsh and immediately we are reminded of Blanche and Jane Hudson from Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? There is an unkept quality to the pair that at first stuns the viewer (pair of penniless bums?). After the initial shock the story plays out to it's humorous and satisfying end. This one is most definitely for the American Me or Whatever Happened to...? fans. Writer/Director Juan Rodriguez has done a fine job of capturing the unique personalities of his stars. All in all I give this short an 8 with 2 points being deducted for lack of proper star presentation. This Ranfla could have used a good wax job!
American Playhouse: Seguin (1982)
SEGUIN Excellent film
SEGUIN was NOT shot in 1979, it was shot in the summer of 1980. It was the first time that an honest depiction of one aspect of the entire ALAMO saga was told TRUTHFULLY. If anyone knows how to get a copy on DVD or VHS please email me and let me know. This film was shot in 16mm and shown at several film festivals across the country. This film has significant cultural and historical value and should be shown in classrooms throughout the U.S. The cast alone makes this film well worth watching as so many of the players herein went on to have distinguished careers in film and television. Judy Irola's camera work is excellent and given the restrictions of budget and time I would have to say it's a miracle this film ever got made. This one is one to be enjoyed.