4L (Movie)

Title — 4L
Available on — Netflix
Production Country — Spain
Release Date — 2019
Hoping to reunite with a dying friend, two longtime pals re-create their desert road trip from Spain to Mali, bringing along his estranged daughter.

🪶 Story & Synopsis

4L Movie Synopsis:

4L is a Spanish comedy-drama film directed and co-written by Gerardo Olivares, which was first released in theaters in Spain on March 1, 2019, and later made available on Netflix on July 12, 2019. The movie follows the journey of three friends as they embark on a poignant adventure from Spain to Mali.

The story revolves around Tocho, a rough and bad-mannered alcoholic, and Jean Pierre, a reformed womanizer, who alongside Ely, travel to Mali to fulfill Ely’s wish of meeting her estranged father for the last time. The trio sets out to reunite with a dying friend in Mali, crossing the Spanish Sahara with Ely, the friend’s daughter, in tow.

As they traverse the desert, memories of their past trips together in the 1980s resurface, where they had crossed Africa in cars that they would eventually sell. The journey not only becomes a physical one through stunning landscapes but also a nostalgic voyage through their shared history and deep-rooted friendship.

Despite never physically visiting Algeria, Mali, or Timbuktu, the film beautifully captures the essence of these locations, thanks to the captivating scenery shot on the Spanish islands of Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura, as well as in Morocco and Senegal. The authenticity of the setting adds a layer of realism to the story, making the viewer feel as though they are truly on this heartfelt journey with the characters.

The main cast includes Hovik Keuchkerian as Tocho, Jean Reno as Jean Pierre, and Susana Abaitua as Ely, who deliver compelling performances that bring depth and emotion to their characters. The film’s narrative blends drama with subtle comedic elements, creating a pleasant and engaging viewing experience for the audience.

4L is a touching tale of friendship, love, and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones, even in the face of adversity. It explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the power of shared experiences that bind people together, transcending time and distance.

With a budget estimated at €3,000,000, the film’s worldwide gross reached $400,530. Despite receiving mixed reviews, with 57% of the critical reviews on Rotten Tomatoes being positive, the average rating stands at 5.2/10. The runtime of the movie is 1 hour and 45 minutes, presented in an aspect ratio of 2.35:1.

4L offers viewers a soul-stirring cinematic journey through breathtaking landscapes and heartfelt storytelling, making it a compelling watch that resonates with themes of friendship, nostalgia, and the enduring bond between old friends.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Jean Reno, Hovik Keuchkerian, Susana Abaitua, Juan Dos Santos, Arturo Valls, Enrique San Francisco, Francesc Garrido, Eric Nguyen

Actor Role
Jean Reno Jean Pierre
Hovik Keuchkerian Tocho
Susana Abaitua Ely
Juan Dos Santos Mamadou
Arturo Valls Soriano
Enrique San Francisco Joseba
Francesc Garrido Alain / Akly
Ileana Wilson Maimona
Eric Nguyen Takimoto
Antonio Engonga Ekaley
Pablo Altadill Álex
Himar González Supermoon
José Luis Esteban Recepcionista
Boré Buika Sargento
Ibrahim Ibnou Goush Policía puesto control

💬 Reviews and feedback

Lights, camera, action! Welcome to the reel world of “4L” – a Spanish (with a touch of French) road movie that will take you on a journey filled with drama, comedy, and heartwarming moments. If you’re ready to buckle up and hit the road with Tocho, Jean Pierre, and Ely, then grab your popcorn and let’s dive into this cinematic adventure!

Picture this: “4L” is like a road trip playlist curated by your quirky friend who mixes emotional ballads with laugh-out-loud anthems. It’s a tale of friendship, nostalgia, and the bittersweet symphony of life. As our trio embarks on a soul-stirring expedition from Spain to Mali in a vintage Renault 4 race car, get ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions that will leave you both teary-eyed and chuckling.

The movie paints a vivid portrait of camaraderie as Tocho, Jean Pierre, and Ely navigate through rugged terrains, quirky encounters, and heartfelt conversations. The character development is akin to watching a Polaroid picture slowly develop – each moment capturing raw emotions and unbreakable bonds. You’ll find yourself rooting for these unlikely heroes as they chase memories across the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert.

Now let’s talk about the performances! Jean Reno shines like a shooting star in the night sky with his charismatic portrayal of Tocho. His acting prowess adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, making you feel every emotion right down to your popcorn-crunching core. Hovik Keuchkerian as Jean Pierre brings comic relief that lands effortlessly like a well-timed punchline. And let’s not forget Ely’s poignant journey portrayed beautifully by Susana Abaitua – she’s the beating heart of this adventure.

Binge-watching Tip: Keep an eye out for subtle nuances in the characters’ interactions; it’s like finding hidden treasures in plain sight that enrich the storytelling experience.

As we shift our gaze towards the direction by Gerardo Olivares, it’s evident that he steers this cinematic ship with finesse. The way he captures sweeping landscapes juxtaposed with intimate moments reflects his keen eye for visual storytelling. Each frame feels like a painting come to life, inviting you to immerse yourself in the beauty of both nature and human connections.

The cinematography deserves a standing ovation! From sun-kissed dunes to starlit nights under the African sky, every shot is framed with precision and artistry. You’ll feel like you’re right there alongside our protagonists, breathing in the same desert air and chasing dreams under an endless canopy of stars.

Production design? Aces all around! The vintage charm of the Renault 4 race car becomes more than just a vehicle; it transforms into a symbol of friendship, nostalgia, and unwavering loyalty. The attention to detail in recreating diverse landscapes adds layers to the narrative tapestry, making each pit stop along their journey feel like stepping into a new chapter of their lives.

Special effects? Let’s just say that while CGI spectacles have their place in cinema, “4L” relies on practical effects that ground its storytelling in authenticity. Whether it’s traversing sandy dunes or braving dusty winds, every moment feels real and palpable – transporting you directly into the heart of their adventure.

Editing? The pacing is akin to driving down an open highway with no speed limits – smooth yet exhilarating. Transitions between past memories and present realities are seamless, adding depth to each character’s backstory without losing momentum in the main narrative arc.

Dialogue? Ahoy there! The script strikes a perfect balance between poignant reflections on life’s complexities and light-hearted banter that keeps your spirits high even amidst challenging circumstances. Every word uttered feels purposeful, resonating long after the credits roll.

So grab your travel buddy (or furry companion), embark on this cinematic road trip with “4L,” and let its heartfelt story wash over you like waves crashing on sandy shores.

Rating: 8/10

In conclusion: “4L” isn’t just about reaching your destination; it’s about embracing the journey with all its bumps, detours, and scenic views along the way. So fasten your seatbelt (metaphorically speaking) and get ready for an unforgettable ride filled with laughter, tears, and moments that will linger in your heart long after you’ve reached ‘The End.’

Remember: Life is like a movie – full of twists, turns, laughter & tears; so why not enjoy every scene while we’re still here?

Lights out!

Pros Cons
Pleasant story to follow Lack of depth in character development
Mix of drama and mild comedy elements Slow pacing in certain parts
Interesting setting in Africa Unfulfilled promise of deeper connection to the African environment
Good interaction between characters Minimal action or plot progression
Engaging road trip theme Subtitles might be a barrier for some viewers

Feedback

  • 4L (film) - Wikipedia

    4L(Spanish:) is a 2019 Spanish comedy film directed by Gerardo Olivares and written by Olivares and María Jesús Petrement. The plot revolves around Tocho (Hovik Keuchkerian), who is a rough, bad-mannered alcoholic; Jean Pierre (Jean Reno), who was once a womanizer but has matured; and Ely (Susana Abaitua). They are all travelling from Spain to Ely’s father Joseba (Enrique San Francisco) who lives in Tombuctu, Mali, and is on his deathbed. They decided to travel there by using Ely’s father’s old car, a car they used to do road trips in.

  • 4L (2019) - IMDb

    helpful•21

    • MikeyB1793
    • Sep 10, 2019
    • How long is 4L?Powered by Alexa

    DetailsBox office

    • Budget
      • €3,000,000 (estimated)
    • Gross worldwide
      • $400,530
    • Runtime1 hour 45 minutes
    • Color
    • Sound mix
    • Aspect ratio
      • 2.35 : 1

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  • 4 latas | Rotten Tomatoes

    4 latasWhere to Watch4 latas

    Watch 4 latas with a subscription on Netflix.

    Critics ReviewsAudience ReviewsCast & Crew

    Gerardo OlivaresDirectorJean RenoJean PierreHovik KeuchkerianTochoSusana AbaituaElyEnrique San FranciscoJosebaFrancesc GarridoAlain

  • '4L (4 latas)' Netflix Review: Stream It or Skip It? - Decider

    4L: STREAM IT OR SKIP IT?

    The Gist:Back in 1979, three buddies road-tripped through Africa, an unforgettable journey that bonded them for life. Forty years later, one, Tocho (Hovik Keuchkerian), is a depressed, lonely, alcoholic security guard with very little to lose. Another, Jean Pierre (Jean Reno), owns a vineyard, and is a little worse for wear, but considerably better off. The third, Joseba (Enrique San Francisco), is sick and dying. There’s some perspective for you.Advertisement

⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)

In the 2019 Spanish comedy film “4L” directed by Gerardo Olivares, we follow the journey of three unlikely companions: Tocho, a rough and alcohol-infused man from Spain played by Hovik Keuchkerian; Jean Pierre, a once womanizer now matured, portrayed by the legendary Jean Reno; and Ely, played by Susana Abaitua. The trio embarks on a road trip from Spain to Timbuktu, Mali, to visit Ely’s dying father, Joseba (Enrique San Francisco), using her father’s old 1982 Renault.

The plot unfolds as Tocho receives a letter informing him of Joseba’s condition, prompting him to reunite with Jean Pierre and convince Ely to join them on this nostalgic journey. Ely reveals the well-preserved Renault in her garage, sparking memories of their past Sahara Desert adventure and leading to the decision to recreate the trip. However, what was once a carefree road trip now faces challenges as the aging men and car encounter breakdowns and perilous situations in the desert.

During their journey, they befriend a Malian hitchhiker named Mamadou, played by Juan Dos Santos, who tragically dies of thirst after the 4L breaks down. The travelers also face a confrontation with a French trafficker in the Tanezrouft desert, adding tension to their already tumultuous expedition. Upon reaching Timbuktu, they reunite with Joseba and his Malian partner, setting the stage for a heartwarming finale where the main characters pledge to restore Joseba’s riverboat on the Niger River.

The film boasts a talented cast including Jean Reno as Jean Pierre, Hovik Keuchkerian as Tocho, Susana Abaitua as Ely, Juan Dos Santos as Mamadou, and Enrique San Francisco as Joseba, among others. Filmed over eight weeks in Spain, Morocco, and Senegal, the production captures the essence of the desert landscape without actually visiting Algeria, Mali, or Timbuktu as depicted on screen.

“4L” was theatrically released in Spain on March 1, 2019, and later made available on Netflix on July 12, 2019. While the film received mixed reviews, with a 57% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes as of October 2021, it offers a touching and humorous tale of friendship, nostalgia, and the challenges of aging set against the backdrop of a memorable road trip.

👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-MA

Age Rating:

The movie “4L” has a maturity rating of 16+.

Parental Guide:

Parents need to be aware of the following content in the movie “4L” in order to make an informed decision about whether it is suitable for their children:

  • Sex & Nudity: There is a scene where a young man and woman are sleeping close to each other in a bed. The man is shirtless, but the scene is not suggestive. An older man puts cash under the collar of a young woman’s shirt. When she brings him change she puts the money back into her bra. A man briefly flashes his fully bare buttocks on camera.
  • Alcohol: One of the lead characters is portrayed as an alcoholic throughout the movie.
  • Violence: The movie contains some poignant and sad moments, but there is no explicit violence depicted.

Given the themes and content of the movie, it is recommended for viewers aged 16 and above due to the mature subject matter and portrayal of alcohol consumption.

📺 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
Netflix 4L (2019) is available on Netflix. It is categorized as a comedy movie with a maturity rating of 16+ and a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. The movie follows the story of two longtime pals re-creating their desert road trip from Spain to Mali, bringing along a dying friend’s estranged daughter.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • An entertaining and attractive road movie across the Sahara desert , filmed on natural sets and colorful outdoors.
  • A letter from Tombuctu, Mali , revealing his old friend Joseba is very ill.
  • Let me Google that for you: a 4L refers to the Renault 4, a four-wheel-drive French automobile.

🤖4L Reddit Talks

General Discussion:

  • The idea of creating a four-hour theatrical release has been discussed, with opinions varying on its feasibility and potential impact.
  • Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” is considered a great film, while Denis Villeneuve’s recent works, including four films, are highly regarded.
  • The fourth installment of a movie series often faces criticism for being inferior to its predecessors.

Specific Movies Mentioned:

  • Journey 2: The Mysterious Island: Enjoyed by children but not considered a high-quality film.
  • Four Christmases: Questioned why it was produced despite its perceived lack of merit.
  • Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes: Praised for its compelling characters, action, and overall quality.
  • 4L: A favored album by some, appreciated for its diverse beats and the artist’s unique style.
  • Lord of the Rings: Return of the King Extended: Recognized as a beloved film despite its lengthy runtime.

Other Topics:

  • Recommendations for movies suitable for four-year-old children.
  • Enthusiasm for a specific artist’s music, particularly the album “4L”.
  • Appreciation for the character of Lucy Liu in an unnamed movie, described as the “best dominatrix character in movie history”.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the movie 4L about?

The movie 4L, also known as 4 Latas, is a Spanish road movie that follows the journey of three friends from Spain to Mali to meet Ely’s dying father for the last time. The story combines drama with mild comedy elements and explores the bond between the characters as they travel through the Sahara Desert.

Where was the movie 4L filmed?

The movie 4L was filmed on the Spanish islands of Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura, as well as in Morocco and Senegal. The stunning scenery and landscapes captured on screen provide a visually immersive experience, although the actors never actually visited some of the locations featured in the film.

Who are the main actors in 4L?

The main actors in 4L include Jean Reno as Jean Pierre, Hovik Keuchkerian as Tocho, Susana Abaitua as Ely, Juan Dos Santos as Mamadou, and Arturo Valls as Soriano. These talented actors bring the characters to life and contribute to the captivating journey portrayed in the movie.

What are some similar movies to 4L?

If you enjoyed 4L, you may also like other movies such as “Formentera Lady,” “Journey to a Mother’s Room,” “Live Twice, Love Once,” “Taxi a Gibraltar,” “One for the Road,” and “Advantages of Travelling by Train.” These movies explore themes related to travel, relationships, and personal journeys.

How can I find a good movie like 4L?

To discover movies similar to 4L, consider exploring works by the same director, featuring the same actors, or belonging to the same genre or movement. Additionally, you can follow your interests in terms of contemporary genres, hobbies, or countries to find related movies that resonate with your preferences.

Is 4L available for streaming on Netflix?

Yes, 4L is available for streaming on Netflix. The movie provides a unique storyline centered around friendship, travel, and emotional connections, making it a compelling watch for viewers interested in road movies with a blend of drama and comedy elements.

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