JuliaMaia is a writer and filmmaker originally from Brazil. She grew up watching every piece of television and film she encountered from all over the world, which inspired her to come to Los Angeles to study film. She always knew that in order to be happy and fulfilled she had to be surrounded by art. She is always in search of the next film, show or performance that will inspire her. Her background in filmmaking helps her appreciate the technical elements of a film, as well as relish the journey of each story being told. There is not a topic Maia enjoys talking about more than film and the film industry and how it impacts the world and vice versa. The Hollywood Insider is the perfect platform for Maia to participate in the discourse about anything film related with many that , much like herself, love to take part in real important conversations and deeply appreciate the art of telling stories.
Oct 20, 2024
Table of Contents
Hulu’s new Spanish-language series ‘La Máquina’ (2024) is a visually striking, dark dramedy that masterfully blends campy, over-the-top elements with moments of psychological tension. Set primarily in Mexico, the show follows an aging boxer and his crafty manager as they gear up for what could be their final match. What truly sets ‘La Máquina’ apart from typical sports dramas is its surreal tone and its nuanced portrayal of family dynamics. The series balances moments of absurdity with heartfelt interactions, creating a unique blend of suspense, humor, and emotional depth.
The story centers on Esteban “La Máquina” Osuna (Gael García Bernal), a veteran boxer past his prime, and his longtime manager, Andy Luján (Diego Luna), as they chase one last shot at glory in the last match of their career. Even though he would not admit to it, Esteban’s health is silently deteriorating due to substance abuse coupled with years of boxing matches, which adds a very palpable tension to his last boxing match. The bond between Esteban and Andy is strained by their massive egos, which complicates their journey—especially as the story eventually pushes them to set aside their pride and prioritize their loved ones. What makes ‘La Máquina’ stand out is its ability to blend realism with surreal, hallucinatory sequences, sometimes shifting perspectives between Esteban and Andy to explore deeper themes like trauma, manipulation, and the toll of their choices. Despite the heavy subject matter, the show balances the darkness with humor, creating a dynamic and captivating narrative that keeps viewers engaged with its unconventional yet very compelling narrative.
The performances in ‘La Máquina’ are a major highlight, with Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna leading the way as Esteban and Andy. García Bernal, known for his roles in Nicole Kassell’s ‘A Little Bit of Heaven’ (2011), Prime Video’s ‘Mozart in the Jungle’ (2014-2018) and Pixar’s ‘Coco’ (2017), delivers a captivating portrayal of a boxer struggling with trauma and deteriorating mental and physical health. His nuanced balance of serious emotion, dark humor, and vulnerability makes Esteban a deeply compelling character. Meanwhile, Luna, who starred in Julie Taymor’s ‘Frida’ (2002) and the Oscar winning ‘Milk’ (2008) and gained widespread recognition from ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ (2016) and ‘Andor’ (2022-), transforms completely for his role as Andy. His comedic style is bold and exaggerated, offering a sharp contrast to García Bernal’s more restrained performance. Their chemistry, likely enhanced by their real-life friendship since starring alongside each other in the Oscar nominated ‘Y Tu Mamá También’ (2001), adds authenticity to their dynamic, making their partnership feel natural and engaging on screen.
In the supporting cast, Eiza González shines as Irasema, Esteban’s ex-wife and a determined investigative journalist. González skillfully captures Irasema’s internal conflict as she balances her fierce pursuit of the truth about the underground boxing world with her role as a protective mother trying to keep her kids safe, which will be impossible if she continues with her investigation. Jorge Perugorría, as Sixto, the tough yet wise boxing coach, brings depth to his role. He convincingly portrays the duality of Sixto’s character, projecting a stern exterior while revealing a caring, mentor-like relationship with Esteban, giving the character authenticity and emotional weight.
The visuals in ‘La Máquina’ play a crucial role in shaping the show’s surreal atmosphere and urban aesthetic. Every element, from the detailed costume and hair design to the striking production design and cinematography, honors the rich Mexican culture embedded in the story. The lighting, in particular, is expertly used to differentiate reality from hallucination, especially during Esteban’s mental breakdowns. These sharp contrasts blur the line between the real and the imagined, fully immersing the audience in Esteban’s disorienting experiences. The environments also serve the narrative well—from gritty underground boxing rings to humble homes, juxtaposed against the more lavish homes of Esteban and Andy’s lives. These visual elements not only enhance the mood but also reinforce the themes of manipulation and psychological turmoil that run throughout the series, making the world of the show feel both captivating and unsettling.
In conclusion, ‘La Máquina’ delivers a refreshingly unique take on the sports drama genre, blending surrealism, psychological depth, and dark humor in a way that sets it apart. The performances of Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna are at the heart of the show, with their chemistry and individual portrayals bringing authenticity and complexity to the characters. ‘La Máquina’ is a compelling and multifaceted series that successfully combines its intense themes with moments of levity and self-aware humor, making it a captivating watch from start to finish.
Click here to read The Hollywood Insider’s CEO Pritan Ambroase’s love letter to Cinema, TV and Media. An excerpt from the love letter: The Hollywood Insider’s CEO/editor-in-chief Pritan Ambroase affirms, “We have the space and time for all your stories, no matter who/what/where you are. Media/Cinema/TV have a responsibility to better the world and The Hollywood Insider will continue to do so. Talent, diversity and authenticity matter in Cinema/TV, media and storytelling. In fact, I reckon that we should announce “talent-diversity-authenticity-storytelling-Cinema-Oscars-Academy-Awards” as synonyms of each other. We show respect to talent and stories regardless of their skin color, race, gender, sexuality, religion, nationality, etc., thus allowing authenticity into this system just by something as simple as accepting and showing respect to the human species’ factual diversity. We become greater just by respecting and appreciating talent in all its shapes, sizes, and forms. Award winners, which includes nominees, must be chosen on the greatness of their talent ALONE.
I am sure I am speaking for a multitude of Cinema lovers all over the world when I speak of the following sentiments that this medium of art has blessed me with. Cinema taught me about our world, at times in English and at times through the beautiful one-inch bar of subtitles. I learned from the stories in the global movies that we are all alike across all borders. Remember that one of the best symbols of many great civilizations and their prosperity has been the art they have left behind. This art can be in the form of paintings, sculptures, architecture, writings, inventions, etc. For our modern society, Cinema happens to be one of them. Cinema is more than just a form of entertainment, it is an integral part of society. I love the world uniting, be it for Cinema, TV, media, art, fashion, sport, etc. Please keep this going full speed.”
JuliaMaia is a writer and filmmaker originally from Brazil. She grew up watching every piece of television and film she encountered from all over the world, which inspired her to come to Los Angeles to study film. She always knew that in order to be happy and fulfilled she had to be surrounded by art. She is always in search of the next film, show or performance that will inspire her. Her background in filmmaking helps her appreciate the technical elements of a film, as well as relish the journey of each story being told. There is not a topic Maia enjoys talking about more than film and the film industry and how it impacts the world and vice versa. The Hollywood Insider is the perfect platform for Maia to participate in the discourse about anything film related with many that , much like herself, love to take part in real important conversations and deeply appreciate the art of telling stories.
JuliaMaia is a writer and filmmaker originally from Brazil. She grew up watching every piece of television and film she encountered from all over the world, which inspired her to come to Los Angeles to study film. She always knew that in order to be happy and fulfilled she had to be surrounded by art. She is always in search of the next film, show or performance that will inspire her. Her background in filmmaking helps her appreciate the technical elements of a film, as well as relish the journey of each story being told. There is not a topic Maia enjoys talking about more than film and the film industry and how it impacts the world and vice versa. The Hollywood Insider is the perfect platform for Maia to participate in the discourse about anything film related with many that , much like herself, love to take part in real important conversations and deeply appreciate the art of telling stories.
JuliaMaia is a writer and filmmaker originally from Brazil. She grew up watching every piece of television and film she encountered from all over the world, which inspired her to come to Los Angeles to study film. She always knew that in order to be happy and fulfilled she had to be surrounded by art. She is always in search of the next film, show or performance that will inspire her. Her background in filmmaking helps her appreciate the technical elements of a film, as well as relish the journey of each story being told. There is not a topic Maia enjoys talking about more than film and the film industry and how it impacts the world and vice versa. The Hollywood Insider is the perfect platform for Maia to participate in the discourse about anything film related with many that , much like herself, love to take part in real important conversations and deeply appreciate the art of telling stories.
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