Loco

But, Loco suffers from The Incredible Hulk syndrome. See, that slightly forgotten MCU-entry, released just months after the juggernaut that was Iron Man, has a lot going for: good special effects, an engaging story, and exciting action. However, it is the worst of all the Marvel Cinematic Universe entries because of a fatal casting flaw. See, Edward Norton, who plays Bruce, and Liv Tyler as Betty, share negative chemistry. The word negative there is not a mistake. These two otherwise excellent actors seem to repel each other in their scenes. They are thusly destroying a central part of that movie, Bruce and Betty’s relationship. It is meant to be a lynchpin to the Hulk’s humanity, but because they are so appalling together, the audience does not buy into it, so the movie as a whole does not work.

Loco suffers a similar fate with Tim Torre and GeffriMaya. Outside of their romantic entanglement, they deliver fine performances, especially her as she strives to protect her younger brother. But these two actors are not believable as a couple. Their chemistry is not just non-existent; it actively sucks the life and urgency out of what should be intense moments.

“…does not break any new ground…but the characterizations are strong…”

It is too bad, really, as most of the acting is pretty spot on. Craig Stark, as Lester is a commanding presence, believably being despondent and cruel all at once. As a cop trying to bust Lester, Gil Darnell is a lot of fun. Excluding the romance, GeffriMaya is probably the best actor here. The scene when she confesses everything to Alex is filled with anxiety, dread, and hopefulness. GeffriMaya sells all those emotional beats perfectly. Torre nails Alex’s sardonic side, never revealing his endgame too soon.

Loco does not break any new ground in terms of its story, and the romance between the leads does not work in the slightest as they share negative chemistry. But the characterizations are strong, the movie is well-paced, and the ending works. If the film sounds like your kind of thing, give it a watch, there are certainly worse ways of spending an hour and a half.