Through My Window

 

Trailer provided by Netflix via Youtube

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)

Release Date: February 4, 2022

Genre: Teen Romance, Drama

Platform: Netflix

Director: Marçal Forés

Screenplay: Eduard Sola

Based on: A través de mi ventana by Ariana Godoy

Cast: Clara Galle, Julio Peña, Guillermo Lasheras, Natalia Azahara, Pilar Castro

Runtime: 116 minutes

Language: Spanish

Country: Spain

Sequels: Through My Window: Across the Sea (2023), Through My Window: Looking at You (2024)

Through My Window

 (2022) – Movie Review

Through My Window (A través de mi ventana) is a Spanish teen romance film that delves into the complexities of young love, obsession, and the challenges of bridging social divides. Directed by Marçal Forés and based on Ariana Godoy’s popular Wattpad novel, the film follows the story of Raquel, a high school student who harbors a deep infatuation for her affluent neighbor, Ares Hidalgo. As their paths intertwine, the narrative explores themes of desire, autonomy, and the consequences of intense emotions.

Plot Summary

Raquel Mendoza (Clara Galle) is an aspiring writer living in a modest home overshadowed by the opulent Hidalgo mansion. Her life takes a turn when she discovers that Ares Hidalgo (Julio Peña), the enigmatic and wealthy neighbor she’s long admired from afar, has hacked into her Wi-Fi. This unexpected intrusion sparks a series of encounters that blur the lines between fantasy and reality.

As Raquel and Ares grow closer, their relationship intensifies, marked by passionate moments and emotional turbulence. However, Ares’s reluctance to publicly acknowledge their bond, coupled with familial pressures and societal expectations, tests Raquel’s resolve. The narrative culminates in a bittersweet farewell, as Ares departs to study medicine in Stockholm, and Raquel embraces her identity as a writer by publishing her story, aptly titled Through My Window. 

Performances

Clara Galle delivers a compelling performance as Raquel, capturing the character’s vulnerability, determination, and emotional depth. Julio Peña portrays Ares with a brooding intensity, embodying the archetype of the aloof yet passionate love interest. Their on-screen chemistry drives the film’s emotional core, though some critics have noted a lack of nuanced development in their relationship dynamics. 

Supporting performances by Guillermo Lasheras as Yoshi and Natalia Azahara as Daniela provide moments of levity and grounding, offering a contrast to the central couple’s tumultuous journey. Pilar Castro’s portrayal of Raquel’s mother adds depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of maternal support and personal growth.

Direction and Cinematography

Director Marçal Forés crafts a visually engaging film, utilizing the urban landscapes of Barcelona to juxtapose the contrasting worlds of Raquel and Ares. The cinematography by Elías M. Félix captures intimate moments with a soft, romantic lens, enhancing the film’s dreamy aesthetic. However, some viewers may find the pacing uneven, with certain scenes lingering longer than necessary, potentially detracting from the overall narrative momentum.

Writing and Themes

Eduard Sola’s screenplay stays largely faithful to Godoy’s original novel, emphasizing themes of young love, self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating societal expectations. While the film attempts to explore issues of autonomy and empowerment, it has faced criticism for perpetuating certain toxic relationship tropes and lacking a critical lens on problematic behaviors. 

The dialogue often leans into melodrama, which may resonate with fans of the genre but could alienate viewers seeking more nuanced storytelling. The narrative’s reliance on familiar romantic clichés may also limit its appeal to a broader audience.

Sound Design and Score

The film’s soundtrack complements its romantic tone, featuring a selection of contemporary tracks that underscore key emotional beats. While the music enhances the film’s atmosphere, it doesn’t particularly stand out or elevate the narrative in a significant way. The sound design is competent, ensuring clarity in dialogue and ambient sounds, but lacks distinctive elements that would set it apart in the genre.

Critical Reception

Through My Window received mixed to negative reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a low approval rating, with reviewers citing its derivative plot and lack of originality as primary shortcomings.  Common Sense Media noted that while the young cast is charismatic, the film feels disappointing due to its reliance on overused tropes. 

Audience reactions have been similarly divided. Some viewers appreciate the film’s passionate portrayal of young love and its alignment with popular romantic narratives, while others criticize it for glamorizing unhealthy relationship dynamics.

Final Verdict

Through My Window offers a visually appealing and emotionally charged exploration of teenage romance, anchored by strong performances from its lead actors. However, its adherence to familiar tropes and lack of critical engagement with its themes may limit its impact. For fans of the genre and readers of the original novel, the film provides a faithful adaptation that captures the intensity of first love. Others may find it lacking in depth and innovation.

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)