I’m So Excited! (2013) Movie Review: A Campy and Outrageous Sky-High Farce
Overview
Directed by Pedro Almodóvar, “I’m So Excited!” (original title: “Los amantes pasajeros”) (2013) is a Spanish comedy that blends camp, satire, and farce in a colorful and outrageous narrative set aboard an airplane. Starring Javier Cámara, Raúl Arévalo, and Carlos Areces, the film explores themes of love, sexuality, and existential crises with Almodóvar’s signature flair for melodrama and vibrant aesthetics. While it may not reach the emotional depths of Almodóvar’s more serious works, “I’m So Excited!” offers a playful and entertaining ride.
Plot Summary
The film takes place almost entirely on a Peninsula Airlines flight bound for Mexico City. Due to a technical failure caused by ground crew members León (Antonio Banderas) and Jessica (Penélope Cruz), the plane is forced to circle in the air, waiting for an emergency landing slot. The economy class passengers are drugged and unconscious, leaving the drama to unfold among the business class passengers and the flamboyant flight attendants.
The crew, led by chief steward Joserra (Javier Cámara) and his colleagues Ulloa (Raúl Arévalo) and Fajas (Carlos Areces), try to keep the passengers calm while dealing with their own personal issues. As the passengers’ secrets and insecurities are revealed, the film becomes a high-flying confessional, with each character facing their fears, desires, and regrets.
Performance and Direction
Javier Cámara, Raúl Arévalo, and Carlos Areces deliver exuberant performances as the flight attendants, embracing the film’s campy and over-the-top tone. Their chemistry and comedic timing provide much of the film’s humor and energy. Cámara, in particular, stands out with his portrayal of Joserra, whose romantic entanglements add depth to his character.
The ensemble cast, including Cecilia Roth, Lola Dueñas, and José Luis Torrijo, bring their characters to life with a mix of eccentricity and vulnerability. Each actor fully commits to Almodóvar’s vision, resulting in a series of memorable and humorous performances.
Pedro Almodóvar’s direction is bold and unapologetic, embracing the film’s absurdity and theatricality. The pacing is brisk, with Almodóvar skillfully balancing the film’s comedic and dramatic elements. His use of bright colors, stylized sets, and dynamic camera work create a visually engaging and lively atmosphere that enhances the film’s whimsical tone.
Visuals and Cinematography
The cinematography by José Luis Alcaine is vibrant and eye-catching, utilizing a palette of bold colors that is characteristic of Almodóvar’s style. The confined setting of the airplane is cleverly used to create a sense of intimacy and tension, while the exaggerated design elements add to the film’s playful and surreal quality.
The film’s visual style is complemented by its production design, which transforms the airplane cabin into a theatrical stage where the characters’ dramas unfold. The use of lighting and color effectively highlights the emotional highs and lows, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative.
Themes and Relevance
“I’m So Excited!” explores themes of love, sexuality, and existential anxiety in a lighthearted and satirical manner. The film delves into the characters’ desires, fears, and regrets, using humor and absurdity to examine human vulnerabilities and the search for meaning.
The narrative also touches on themes of escapism and the desire to break free from societal constraints. The airplane setting serves as a metaphor for the characters’ liminal state, suspended between their past mistakes and the possibility of a fresh start.
While the film’s approach is more comedic and less emotionally intense than some of Almodóvar’s other works, it still offers insightful commentary on human nature and the complexities of relationships.
Streaming and Availability
For viewers in the United States, “I’m So Excited!” is available for streaming on various platforms. You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video and other streaming services. The film is also available for rent or purchase on digital platforms such as Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Vudu, and YouTube Movies.
Conclusion
“I’m So Excited!” is a campy and outrageous comedy that showcases Pedro Almodóvar’s flair for humor and melodrama. With vibrant visuals, strong performances, and a playful narrative, the film offers an entertaining and whimsical experience. While it may not reach the emotional depth of Almodóvar’s more serious films, it provides a fun and lighthearted escape.
Fans of Almodóvar’s work and those looking for a quirky and unconventional comedy will find much to enjoy in “I’m So Excited!” Its blend of absurdity, satire, and heartfelt moments ensures that it leaves a lasting impression as a colorful and spirited entry in Almodóvar’s filmography.
