Milwaukee Film Festival 2016: It's Now or Never
By Devvon Eubanks
Marriage is the ultimate act of love, joining together two people who care for each other without bounds or circumstances. But how far can a couple’s love go and how much can it survive? Directed by María Ripoll, “It’s Now or Never” is a romantic Spanish comedy of a lovely couple with a passionate relationship. Alex (Danny Rovira) loves Eva (Maria Valverde), and over the past three years, this couple has become so close and so much in love that they decide to tie the knot. In the English countryside village of Castle Combe where they first met, the couple plan the festivities to perfection. Eventually, Eva and her family go on ahead from Spain to get the wedding set up in England, while Alex trails behind with his family and Eva’s wedding dress in tow. Once the group gets to the airport, however, they find out that an air traffic controller strike has canceled all the flights, and now the group must find alternate routes to get to England to be in time for the wedding. In terms of the overall presentation of the film, there is nothing that is too unique that the viewer can latch onto. However, there is some good humor, solid character dialogue, and warm feelings of love and affection between the on-screen couple of Rovira and Valverde. The couple is very convincing in their dialogue between one another, and the supporting characters help the duo and the story move along in the various situations that arise. Airport strikes, volcanic ash storms, and a bit of infidelity are just a few things the family has to face in light of this joyful occasion. On the other hand, these unfavorable situations bring the family together and strengthen the bond between Alex and Eva, leading to a splendid ceremony and a delightful union of love and people. While it may not be anything distinctive, the film is a beautiful story that is told through pleasant settings, frantic situations, and uproarious comedy. At the end of the day, “It’s Now or Never” is a simple tale that shows how the power of love can overcome all obstacles, no matter how bizarre they may be.
Grade: B
