11/18
At 50, Julian, divorced and struggling for cash, uses an app to share a car to travel around Madrid. He falls in love with Lorena, an ordinary passenger, and his problems begin when two strangers join them on a trip. Filmed at the Hotel Marqués de Riscal. With Last Year in Marienbad (1961). Mr. Blue Skyby Electric Light Orchestra. Álex de la Iglesia, known for his mastery of suspense and horror, seems to have taken a detour with El cuarto pasajero, a film that unfortunately falls into the category of predictable Sunday comedies. Despite its potential, the film lacks the originality and suspense that fans of De la Iglesia’s work have come to expect. The plot is straightforward and the outcome is made clear early on, leaving little room for surprise or engagement. The cast, including Blanca Suárez, Alberto San Juan and Ernesto Alterio, are talented actors, yet their performances are overshadowed by a script that does not do justice to their abilities. It is puzzling why they chose to participate in a project that does not fully utilize their skills. The film’s humor and romantic elements feel forced and lack the wit that could have enhanced the narrative. In conclusion, ‘El cuarto pasajero’ is a forgettable entry in Álex de la Iglesia’s filmography, lacking the depth and creativity that typify his films. It is disappointing to see such a talented director and cast involved in a project that fails to leave a lasting impression.