El Malquerido

Synopsis

El Malquerido is a poignant drama that dives into the life of the iconic Venezuelan singer and songwriter José Luis Rodríguez, known as El Puma. Directed by Carlos Cruz, the film navigates the complexities of love, fame, and loss, portraying the highs and lows of Rodriguez’s tumultuous career and personal life. As he rises to stardom with his romantic ballads, the impact of his passionate relationships and the sacrifices he makes become evident. Through heartfelt performances and a compelling narrative, the film captures the essence of what it means to love deeply and the inevitable heartache that often follows. With rich musical sequences and emotional depth, El Malquerido is a tribute to a legendary figure in Latin music, exploring the universal themes of heartache, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.

Cast

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  Carlos Cruz

  Portabales

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  Jesús "Chino" Miranda

  Felipe Pirela

• 

  Greisy Mena

  Mariela Montiel

• Mariaca Semprún

• Iván Tamayo

• Héctor Manrique

Reviews

El Malquerido received a mixed response from critics, reflecting a range of opinions regarding its storytelling and performances. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.1/10, signifying a tepid reception from the audience. A reviewer from Rotten Tomatoes noted, 'While the film offers a glimpse into the vibrant life of José Luis Rodríguez, it sometimes falls into the traps of melodrama, which may not resonate with all viewers.' The performances, particularly that of the lead actor, have been highlighted positively by several critics. 'Carlos Cruz brings a nuanced portrayal that captures both charisma and vulnerability,' stated a critic from Metacritic. Other opinions, however, pointed out that the film's pacing could benefit from tighter editing, with one review mentioning, 'Though it has heartfelt moments, the narrative occasionally drags, impacting the overall engagement.' Ultimately, El Malquerido is seen as a heartfelt tribute, but it struggles to balance the narrative flow, making it a somewhat uneven cinematic experience.