Watch La Afinadora de Arboles

La Afinadora de Arboles (The Tree Tuner) is an Argentinean drama film released in 2019, directed by Natalia Smirnoff. The movie features a talented cast with Paola Barrientos, Marcelo Subiotto, and Diego Cremonesi in the leading roles. This emotionally charged film explores themes of self-discovery, familial relationships, and the search for meaning amidst life's unexpected turns.

The story follows Clara (played by Paola Barrientos), an accomplished author and illustrator of children's books who finds herself at a crossroads in her life. Having achieved a significant degree of success in her career, Clara appears to have it all – a loving husband (portrayed by Marcelo Subiotto), a beautiful home, and professional accomplishments that many would envy. However, an undercurrent of dissatisfaction lurks beneath the surface of her seemingly perfect life.

Clara's creative process is deeply intertwined with her personal life, as she often draws inspiration from her own experiences and emotions. Despite her outwardly successful facade, she struggles with a nagging sense of emptiness and stagnation. As she grapples with these feelings, an unexpected event triggers a profound shift in Clara’s life, forcing her to reevaluate everything she once valued and took for granted.

As the story unfolds, Clara embarks on a journey of self-exploration that leads her to confront the uncomfortable truths about her life and relationships. Along the way, she meets unusual people, including a peculiar neighbor played by Diego Cremonesi, who challenge her perspectives and encourage her to listen to her inner voice. The title "La Afinadora de Arboles" is a metaphor that beautifully encapsulates the film's central theme of tuning in to one's inner self and the natural world in the quest for harmony and authenticity.

Throughout this journey, the narrative intertwines Clara's personal transformation with the lush and immersive natural landscapes that serve as both backdrop and metaphor for her internal quest. The cinematography is crafted to evoke a sense of enchantment and introspection, mirroring Clara's emotional state and her search for meaning and fulfillment.

The film adeptly navigates the complexities of marriage, parenthood, and female identity in contemporary society. It delves into how societal expectations and personal aspirations can come into conflict, and the choices that women, in particular, have to make regarding their personal and professional lives. Clara's character embodies the dilemmas faced by many individuals, particularly women, who try to balance personal development with the demands of their roles as partners and creatives.

La Afinadora de Arboles relies heavily on nuanced performances and character-driven storytelling. Paola Barrientos delivers a powerful and sensitive portrayal of Clara, bringing a depth that allows the audience to connect with her struggles and desires. The supporting cast also adds richness to the narrative, offering insights into the different facets of human relationships and the influences they can exert on one's life path.

Director Natalia Smirnoff builds upon her penchant for intimate, character-focused dramas, crafting a film that is both contemplative and engaging. Like Smirnoff's previous work, La Afinadora de Arboles is built around a keen observation of human behavior and the subtleties that define our interactions. It is a film that looks closely at the everyday and finds within it the extraordinary journey of self-awareness and growth.

The screenplay, penned by Smirnoff, balances the elements of drama with moments of gentle humor and warmth, allowing the film to address its heavier themes without becoming overwhelming. Throughout the movie, Clara's internal narrative and her external world are portrayed with a delicate touch that respects the complexity of the character's emotions and experiences.

La Afinadora de Arboles has been praised for its thoughtful storytelling, compelling performances, and its ability to draw audiences into the protagonist's intimate world. The film represents a moving examination of life's transitions and the unpredictable ways in which personal and creative fulfillment can be discovered and nurtured.

For viewers who appreciate character-centric cinema that delves into the intricacies of the human condition and celebrates the quiet yet momentous shifts that shape our lives, La Afinadora de Arboles is a film that resonates long after the credits roll. The movie makes a poignant statement about the beauty of embracing change and the resilience required to tune the metaphorical trees within our own lives, no matter how challenging the process may be.

La Afinadora de Arboles is a 2022 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.