El Norte (1983) Review in 2025
El Norte is a powerful and emotional drama that follows two siblings fleeing Guatemala and their perilous journey to the United States. The film explores themes of hope, resilience, and the human spirit.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
El Norte is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and some graphic content.
CineReview Recommendation
El Norte is a must-watch for fans of drama and thriller genres. It's a powerful and emotional film that explores the complexities of the human spirit. I highly recommend it for a theatrical viewing experience.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie takes a dramatic turn when Enrique and Rosa are separated at the border, and Rosa is forced to make a difficult decision to save her brother. The film's climax is both heart-wrenching and uplifting as the siblings are reunited, but not without scars.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is well-crafted and engaging, with a clear narrative that explores the complexities of the characters' journey. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of action, drama, and emotional moments.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with outstanding performances from the lead actors. The chemistry between the actors is excellent, making their relationship believable and engaging.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with distinct personalities and motivations. The chemistry between the lead actors is excellent, making their relationship believable and engaging.
direction9.00/10
The direction is masterful, with a clear vision and a keen eye for detail. The use of camera angles and lighting is excellent, adding to the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking landscapes and a keen eye for detail. The use of natural light is excellent, adding to the overall mood and atmosphere of the film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's powerful story, well-developed characters, and masterful direction make it a standout in the drama genre. The cinematography is stunning, and the acting is superb.
Cons
The film's pacing can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the themes and content too mature for their taste.
Notable Quotes
"The journey is not just about reaching the other side, it's about what you find along the way."
"The only thing that matters is the love we have for each other."
