Watch El Futuro Ya No Es Lo Que Era

El Futuro Ya No Es Lo Que Era (The Future is Not What It Used to Be) is a 2016 Spanish comedy-drama film directed by Pedro Barbero. Starring Dani Rovira, Carmen Maura, and Carolina Bang, this heartwarming and thought-provoking film delves into the complexities of family, love, and life in an ever-changing world. The story revolves around Carlos (Dani Rovira), a talented and ambitious young economist who has always been focused on his career. He is determined to climb the corporate ladder and secure a prominent position in the financial world. However, when his estranged father, Luis (played by Javier Gutiérrez), unexpectedly passes away, Carlos is forced to return to his small hometown.

Upon his arrival, Carlos is confronted by his eccentric and caring mother, Amparo (Carmen Maura), and the fiery Rosa (Carolina Bang), who was once his high school sweetheart. However, Carlos soon discovers that life in his hometown has changed dramatically since he left. The economic crisis has hit hard, unemployment is rampant, and many businesses have closed down. The people he once knew are now facing a multitude of challenges as they struggle to make ends meet.

As Carlos navigates the emotional whirlwind of reconnecting with his past, he begins to question the choices he has made and the priorities he has set for himself. Through his interactions with his mother, who dreams of opening a pastry shop, and Rosa, who works as a waitress and harbors her own unfulfilled dreams, Carlos starts to realize that there is much more to life than just professional success. He discovers the importance of human connection, love, and finding true happiness.

El Futuro Ya No Es Lo Que Era takes a poignant and humorous look at the clash between modern society's high expectations and the realities faced by ordinary people. Through its well-crafted characters, the film explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the value of family and community. The stellar performances by Dani Rovira, Carmen Maura, and Carolina Bang bring depth and nuance to their respective roles, allowing the audience to truly empathize with their personal struggles and desires.

Among its strengths, El Futuro Ya No Es Lo Que Era not only entertains but also prompts reflection on societal issues. It skillfully juxtaposes the dreams and aspirations of individuals with the harsh realities of a changing world. The film cleverly employs humor as a way to address hard-hitting topics, without losing sight of the emotional core of the story. It strikes a delicate balance between comedy and drama, resulting in a captivating narrative that appeals to a wide audience.

Pedro Barbero's direction showcases his ability to seamlessly weave together various themes and characters, capturing the essence of both small town life and the greater human experience. The cinematography beautifully captures the quaintness of the town, juxtaposing it against the struggles faced by its inhabitants, creating a visually engaging backdrop for the film's narrative.

In conclusion, El Futuro Ya No Es Lo Que Era is a touching and compelling film that explores the complexities of life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. Through its relatable characters and thought-provoking storytelling, it encourages audiences to reevaluate their priorities and embrace the beauty of simple pleasures amidst an ever-changing world. This heartfelt Spanish film is bound to leave a lasting impression on viewers, reminding them that sometimes what really matters in life is not what it used to be.

El Futuro Ya No Es Lo Que Era is a 2017 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.2.