Raising Victor Vargas
Directed by Peter Sollett
Starring Victor Rasuk, Judy Marte, Melonie Diaz, Altagracia Guzman and Silvestre Rasuk
Rated R for strong language.

This movie has a lot of heart. You hear that sort of thing a lot, and generally it refers to liberal, literary pap about Native Americans redeeming something or other. But in the case of Peter Sollett’s Raising Victor Vargas, there’s really no other way to put it. The movie just oozes sincerity. It’s funny, but never ironic, aware but never self-deprecating. It’s characters are flawed and sometimes foolish, but it loves them always no matter what. It’s really quite refreshing.

The film centers around a few days in the life of Victor Vargas(Victor Rasuk), an eighteen or so Hispanic guy living in a livable, quirky and sometimes charming version of a New York City neighborhood. He fashions himself a ladies man, and spends his time trying to prove it. The movie begins with what would probably come as the first act break in the Hollywood version and ends somewhere in the middle of what would be act two. The result is a somewhat aimless but always pleasant and engaging eighty-six minutes.

Meandering is perhaps the film’s overarching theme, and Sollett, along cinematographer Tim Orr, makes sure this open ended mood permeates the entire picture. The script takes time for extended character vignettes that do little to advance the film’s modest plot. We spend a half or minute or so watching Victor’s little brother Nino having his hair washed by their ancient Grandmother. Yes, this provides some insight into Victor’s family and the relationship between these secondary characters, but for the most part it sets a tone and fills the film’s world, which is small but remarkably complete.

Orr’s camera work, almost entirely handheld, moves from side to side, up and down and occasionally even makes use of the zoom lens. Sometimes the movements are motivated, sometimes they just seem to be looking around, serving as an eye for a subjective viewer, not an omniscient presence keying in on the most important thing. The shots never look composed but are always lush, admirably combining a documentary-type aesthetic with good, attractive cinematography.

The film’s performances are solid across the board, with each actor bringing something special and unique to their character. It’s rare you see a film in which none of the characters immediately recall something you’ve seen before but here that is truly the case. Particularly striking is the work of Altagracia Guzman. As Victor’s Grandmother, she’s lovable, amusing and aggravating all at once, perfectly playing her part.

Sollett’s crafted a solid, likable movie which truly jumps to life. It looks beautiful and is acted with competence and charm. Personally I like a film’s story to play a little larger role, but for what it is, Raising Victor Vargas is excellent.

Rating 76%