Passionada

Ireland says he was after the kind of "elegant simplicity" of the great Hollywood romantic dramas of the '50s, and, for the most part, this is exactly what he pulls off.

It's a good small film for intelligent audiences who like to watch the movie camera explore other regions and other communities -- something all our movies should do more often.

While the situations don't add up to a satisfying film, the characters are pleasing to watch.

There's much to admire here, including an often witty script and a cast that includes Theresa Russell, Seymour Cassel, and the irrepressible Lupe Ontiveros (Celia's mother-in-law).

I have no objection to soap opera when it's delivered with conviction and a sense of urgency, but this sappy tale ... held my interest only moderately.

Slight and pleasantly predictable film coasts along on the considerable charms of its cast and exotic setting.

There are movies that are made for the big screen, and movies that are made for the small screen; Passionada is the latter type.