Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a 2022 movie based on the award-winning novel by Benjamin Alire Sáenz. It tells the story of two Mexican-American boys, Aristotle "Ari" Mendoza and Dante Quintana, who meet at a swimming pool in 1987 El Paso and form a deep friendship that changes their lives. The movie follows their journey of self-discovery, identity, sexuality, and family, as they face the challenges and joys of growing up.
The movie is written and directed by Aitch Alberto, who does a commendable job of translating the novel's poetic and emotional tone to the screen. She also adds some new scenes that enrich the story and the characters, such as a visit to Dante's aunt in Mexico City and a confrontation with a homophobic bully. The movie is also beautifully shot by Akis Konstantakopoulos, who captures the sun-drenched landscapes of Texas and Mexico, as well as the intimate moments between the boys.
The movie is anchored by the performances of Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales, who play Ari and Dante with authenticity and charisma. They have a natural chemistry that makes their relationship believable and engaging. They also convey the complex emotions of their characters, such as Ari's anger and insecurity, and Dante's curiosity and optimism. The movie also features a stellar supporting cast, including Eugenio Derbez and Eva Longoria as Dante's parents, Verónica Falcón and Isabella Gomez as Ari's mother and sister, Luna Blaise as Ari's love interest, and Kevin Alejandro as Ari's estranged father.
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a movie that will appeal to fans of the novel, as well as anyone looking for a heartfelt and honest portrayal of queer teen love. The movie is not perfect, as it sometimes feels rushed and uneven in its pacing, but it is still a worthy adaptation that honors the spirit and message of the novel. The movie is a celebration of friendship, family, culture, and identity, that will make you laugh, cry, and think. I give it 8 stars out of 10.
The movie is written and directed by Aitch Alberto, who does a commendable job of translating the novel's poetic and emotional tone to the screen. She also adds some new scenes that enrich the story and the characters, such as a visit to Dante's aunt in Mexico City and a confrontation with a homophobic bully. The movie is also beautifully shot by Akis Konstantakopoulos, who captures the sun-drenched landscapes of Texas and Mexico, as well as the intimate moments between the boys.
The movie is anchored by the performances of Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales, who play Ari and Dante with authenticity and charisma. They have a natural chemistry that makes their relationship believable and engaging. They also convey the complex emotions of their characters, such as Ari's anger and insecurity, and Dante's curiosity and optimism. The movie also features a stellar supporting cast, including Eugenio Derbez and Eva Longoria as Dante's parents, Verónica Falcón and Isabella Gomez as Ari's mother and sister, Luna Blaise as Ari's love interest, and Kevin Alejandro as Ari's estranged father.
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a movie that will appeal to fans of the novel, as well as anyone looking for a heartfelt and honest portrayal of queer teen love. The movie is not perfect, as it sometimes feels rushed and uneven in its pacing, but it is still a worthy adaptation that honors the spirit and message of the novel. The movie is a celebration of friendship, family, culture, and identity, that will make you laugh, cry, and think. I give it 8 stars out of 10.