Nochebuena

Nochebuena, directed by Adam Lopez, is a culturally rich and feel-good film for the holidays. Written by Glenaliz Quezada, the rom-com focuses on how a Puerto Rican family and friends in Miami, Florida, come together to celebrate their holiday traditions. This year, there’s more going on than usual, as a special reunion is in store.

Nochebuena, known as “the Good Night,” is a traditional Christmas Feast in Spanish and Latin cultures that goes hand-in-hand with prepping for the holidays. Jennifer (Tanairi Sade Vazquez) arrives at her mother’s house, where her childhood best friend Melissa (Carmen Morales) greets her enthusiastically. They then prepare for the homecoming of Junior (Rene Rosado), who was their other partner in crime growing. As Jennifer’s mother, Alba (Rose Bianco), prepares her traditional dishes with plenty of coquito loaded with rum, the mood is set.

“…buried feelings for Junior begin to swell up as he has been out of town for 15 years…”

Jennifer is frustrated by her relationship with Mike (Christian Escobar), especially since he cannot attend this year’s festivities. Her buried feelings for Junior begin to swell up as he has been out of town for 15 years, which may also play a role in Jennifer re-looking at her current relationship. The loss of his mother, Maria (Elivia Hill), all those years ago made him estranged from his Miami family and friends. Now he’s working hard in New York, climbing the corporate ladder, and is in line for a big promotion. After a romantic interlude between Jennifer and Junior, he slips in the rain and is knocked out. He comes to back in the past. This trip into his memories makes Junior realize his love for Jennifer. Nostalgia and unrequited love overtake, but to the surprise of all, Mike shows up just in time for Nochebuena.

Although Nochebuena is focused on Jennifer and Junior, it does pull at the heartstrings of those who love family and holidays, warts and all. It’s a lovely portrayal of being around those who love you, even if they’re unrelated. Building on the holiday theme of looking back to move forward works well for Jennifer and Junior’s romance, especially with shooting stars, running for cover from the rain, and old photos and scrapbooks. It’s over-the-top but a holiday film, so one can easily forgive such trifles.

The occasional feel of a hand-held camera is distracting. Still, the performances are solid, and the symbolism is appreciated, especially when coupled with the tradition and heritage of everyone’s family and friends. The story uses notes from the past, coveted pieces of jewelry, and confronting one’s desire for happiness to make viewers feel the warmth and love that surrounds everyone during this time of the year. Nochebuena is a pleasant diversion with a sweet story and good acting.