A Better Life (2011)
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Cast
as Carlos Galindo
as Luis Galindo
as Anita
as Blasco Martinez
as Mrs. Donnelley
as Juvie Officer
as Himself
as Ramon
as Santiago
as School Security Officer
as School Secretary
as Linda
as Truck Driver
as Marcelo Valdez
as Bella
as Gigi
as Ruthie's Uncle
as Ruthie's Uncle
as Ruthie's Mother
as Jesus
as Young Woman
as Bearded Man
as Payaso
as Shot Girl
as Mexican Singer
as Mexican Singer
as Voz de Mando Singer
as Voz de Mando Singer
as Busboy
as Auto Mart Security Guard
as Prison Guard
as Police Officer
as Gabe Wettenal
as Rey
as ICE Officer
as ICE Officer
as Coyote
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Critic Reviews for A Better Life
All Critics (105) | Top Critics (37) | Fresh (89) | Rotten (16) | DVD (1)
The didacticism takes the shine off Weitz's accomplishment, even if the film builds up enough empathy to generate slow-burning emotional impact.
A Better Life has more to offer than good intentions: it's sincere and credible, which is more than I can say about an awful lot of movies. Yet something about it kept me at arm's length: I felt the filmmakers' presence instead of...
Bichir delivers a powerful, nuanced performance as a stoic but complex character who treats everyone -- even those who have wronged him -- with a dignity he rarely receives.
The people here seem real, their world is shaky at best, and the political tension that permeates everything in this film feels palpable.
Bichir redeems the secondhand plot and on-the-nose dialogue.
Personalizes the illegal immigrant experience and digs much deeper into what has become a national disgrace.
Audience Reviews for A Better Life
Looks at a very real problem with an excellent script that keeps your interest, plays with your emotions, and has some very real insights into a problem incomprehensible to the average American. Shows a son's developing pride for a father who's strength was hidden, even from his son. Academy Award Best Actor nominee Demián Bichir for the part of the father....A very touching film.
Super Reviewer
Every father wants more for his son Genuinely moving This subtle dramatic film is extremely powerful and moving. The sincere realistic tone the movie carries allows us to really understand the difficulties the characters go through and cheer for them to have a better life. Carlos Galindo (Bichir) is an immigrant gardener in Los Angeles who searches for a better life for himself and his son who faces the difficulties and dilemma of entering a gang. The movie realistically portrays the troubles of Mexican immigrants in the United States, but most importantly show a legit love story between father and son. This movie is wonderfully composed. Weitz uses his subtle and realistic tone to bring out a depressing yet beautiful story. Not only is the story and the style in which the movie is done brilliant. This movie has some of the most powerful performances of the year. Both Bichir and Julian are extraordinary. They develop complex characters and true chemistry, that as you follow these characters steps you hope just the best for them. The movie is composed with emotional scenes that are tear jerkers. In all honesty I felt the Academy Award made a big mistake by not giving Bichir an award. This movie is great, beautiful and real, don't miss it. Warning! viewers might be exposed to extreme sadness. Carlos Galindo: " That's why I had you. For me. For a reason to live."
Super Reviewer
Corny telenovela full of one dimensional characters. Next time try to make a better movie.
Super Reviewer
A Better Life Quotes
| Carlos Galindo: | That's why I had you. For me. For a reason to live. |
| Carlos Galindo: | This truck is my only chance. |
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