Off Course to China (2019)

I was surprised to learn that “Perdiendo el Este” is the second chapter of the film “Perdiendo el Norte”. Both of these chapters are outstanding and amazing. This comedy is directed by Paco Caballero, he has made a film which is truly humorous and fascinating due to it is based on cultural contrasts and language confusion. “Perdiendo el Este” was filmed in 2019, the action takes place in Spain and China in very picturesque locations. By the way, one amazing fact is that this comedy is shown on the trip in train AVE (Sevilla-Valencia), therefore it is considered as an appropriate film for all the passengers.

The writers have created a script which is thrilling and it includes a lot of embarrassment situations which are close to everyone who has ever tried to live and study abroad. The exotic country of ancient culture has become a modern and vibrant country where everything is possible. That’s why thousands of young people in the world decide to pack their bags and set their course to China. Braulio (Julián López) moved to Hong Kong with Rafa (Miki Esparbé) and Hakan (Younes Bachir) in search of new opportunities. However, it is not easy to succeed in a county where language, culture and customs are totally different from those of Europe. It's about the new adventures of a generation lost in search of fortune. But in their search three members find themselves more lost than ever. For Braulio, his experience in China is miserable until he accidentally meets Xiao (Chacha Huang), a different and modern girl with future expectations. They support each other to achieve their goals: the young woman uses him to frighten the suitors that her father seeks for her, while he tries to marry her to obtain residence.

I did really like this film because it shows us a bunch of traditions and customs of Spain and China. One of the brightest episodes took place in Pamplona during the festival of San Fermín, I consider that it is the most interesting scene for Spanish culture lovers. And speaking about the actors of this film, they are truly well selected. One of the actors is Leo Harlem. Last two years he became famous by acting in Spanish comedies such as “El mejor verano de mi vida” and “Padre no hay más que uno”. His acting is really brilliant and heartfelt. The protagonist of this film is Julián López, he acts accurately, every his scene is full of various emotions.

The definitely curious thing about this comedy is how people learn foreign languages while living in foreign countries and mingle with the local population. I would recommend watching this comedy for all people whose life is connected with travelling and especially with studying languages. And do remember that “to travel is to come back”, how Gabriel Garcia Márquez wrote in his poem, this film also reminds us that concept.