Miki Maniaco (2022) User Reviews

The sad end of a life not well spent

[AlanaLO · 10/10 · 12 September 2023]

I wanted to write about this title after seeing it last week or so at the Urban Film Festival in Miami (which I basically stumbled upon; had no idea it was taking place if it wasn't for my venturing in the area after a late lunch meeting with friends). The film opens with lines such as "I wish I was dead" that alone got my attention. The suicide subject is very dear to my heart for two of my best friends have tried it before (gladly un successfully). The film's score is daunting and sorrowful, with sparks of happiness when the characters reminiscent of their past glory: being Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Donald Duck impersonators at some Disney park in Florida. The black and white works perfectly on this movie for it reminded me of the old Mickey Mouse cartoons from the 1950's. The story is pretty crazy and at points hard to follow as many of these art house films tend to be. But it is clear we are watching a train wreck right in front of our eyes. Miki seems depressed, suicidal, manic at times, crazy at others, but full of ego and reluctant to accept his life was spent in futile actions that led to nothing at the end. A life probably full of excesses, drugs, sex and rock and roll pretty much. His girlfriend Mimi keeps saying "my role is being his woman" with a sour taste in her mouth. Angry, violent and at times she sounds also out of her mind. Mimi reminded me of the many prostitutes you see in the streets of any third world country. Donald however looks a bit more cheerful yet dragging his own demons sometimes expressed in bizarre attacks on the imperialistic ways of the USA making fun of the American dream. In sum, the film is a true testament about those unwilling to move on from situations that are not working for them anymore. The film is written and directed by a woman which is very interesting that such dark and depressing story being written by a female. But later on the film, the directress (Carla Forte) speaks through Miki explaining why she feels that way in a ranting monologue that's both harsh and honest. The acting in this film is superb. Truly engaging and organic. Kudos to all (the film is in Spanish so you must read subtitles just so you know). If you have the chance to watch it, please do so, it's a truly bizarre and yet extremely interesting film. 10/10.