
Adapted with lyrical gentleness from Benjamin Alire Sáenz's acclaimed novel, Aitch Alberto's tender period drama captures the aching vulnerability of 1980s adolescent self-realization. The production basks in desert heat, shimmering cinematography, and patient pacing, letting identity and unspoken desires breathe naturally. Alejandro steps in as Bernardo Mendoza, Dante's loving father, infusing the home with genuine warmth and intellectual curiosity. His gentle posture and supportive gaze break traditional hyper-masculine stereotypes, providing the tender ballast that allows the young protagonists to flourish. It remains his most soulful film turn to date.













