Despite Everything (Movie)

Title — Despite Everything
Available on — Netflix, Apple TV+
Production Country — Spain
Release Date — 2019
After their mother's death, four sisters learn a shocking family secret and embark on an adventure to discover the truth about their genealogy.

🪶 Story & Synopsis

In the movie “Despite Everything” or “A pesar de todo,” directed by Gabriela Tagliavini, the audience is introduced to four sisters, Sara (Bianca Suarez), Lucia (Macarena Garcia), Sofia (Amaia Salamanca), and Claudia (Belén Cuesta). The sisters reunite following the death of their mother, Carmen (Marisa Paredes), and are faced with the task of unraveling a shocking family secret.

During their mother’s funeral, the sisters are confronted with unfamiliar male friends of their mother, leading them to question their own identities and past. Among the acquaintances is Alejandro (Maxi Iglesias), an actor and former flame of Sara, who also holds a special place in their father Pedro’s (Juan Diego) heart, much to Sara’s unease. Pedro, battling dementia with sporadic moments of clarity, adds a layer of complexity to the family dynamics.

The narrative unfolds as the sisters embark on a poignant journey to uncover the truth about their genealogy, spurred by the revelation of a long-kept family secret. Through this quest, each sister navigates their personal struggles and insecurities, ultimately finding solace and understanding in the shared exploration of their roots.

Despite the film’s whimsical approach to storytelling and the sisters’ adventures, it grapples with the complexities of family dynamics, individual identity, and the consequences of hidden truths. As the sisters delve deeper into their past, they are forced to confront uncomfortable realities and reconcile with the legacy left by their late mother.

Amidst the emotional revelations and familial revelations, “Despite Everything” weaves a tale of sisterhood, resilience, and the transformative power of self-discovery. The movie invites viewers to reflect on the intricacies of familial bonds, the weight of secrets, and the enduring strength found in unity and acceptance.

🧑 Cast & Crew

Blanca Suárez, Macarena García, Amaia Salamanca, Belén Cuesta, Maxi Iglesias, Juan Diego, Joaquín Climent, Carlos Bardem, Emilio Gutiérrez Caba, Tito Valverde, Teresa Rabal, Rossy de Palma, Marisa Paredes

Actor Role
Blanca Suárez Sara
Macarena García Lucia
Amaia Salamanca Sofía
Belén Cuesta Claudia
Maxi Iglesias Alejandro
Juan Diego Pedro Domínguez
Tito Valverde Victor
Emilio Gutiérrez Caba Padre Díaz
Carlos Bardem Pablo
Joaquín Climent Notario
Teresa Rabal Madre Alejandro
Rossy de Palma Inés
Marisa Paredes Carmen

💬 Reviews and feedback

Are you ready to embark on a cinematic journey through the bustling streets of Madrid, where the city itself becomes a character in the delightful movie “Despite Everything”? Just like a well-crafted paella, this film offers a mix of flavors that might surprise and satisfy your cinematic taste buds.

Picture this: wandering through the majestic Royal Palace, strolling in the vibrant Plaza Mayor – these iconic locations serve as the backdrop for the unfolding drama. The movie “Despite Everything” takes you on a visual tour of Madrid, showcasing its beauty and charm.

Now, let’s dive into the heart of the film. Despite mixed reviews, one thing is certain – this movie is visually pleasing. The scenic beauty of Madrid captured on screen is a treat for the eyes. The cinematography skillfully portrays the essence of the city, making it a compelling co-star alongside the cast.

Speaking of which, let’s talk about our protagonists. The four sisters at the center of the story bring a dynamic energy to the narrative. Each sister adds a unique flavor to the mix, creating an engaging ensemble that keeps you invested in their journey.

While some critics may find the storyline lacking depth, there’s an undeniable charm in its simplicity. It’s like indulging in your favorite comfort food – familiar and satisfying. The quest to find their fathers may seem straightforward, but it’s peppered with enough twists to keep you intrigued.

  • Acting and Characters: The cast delivers solid performances that elevate the story. From Sofia’s boldness to Lucia’s naivety, each character feels distinct and relatable. Amaia Salamanca shines as Sofia, bringing charisma and vulnerability to her role.
  • Direction: Despite any shortcomings in the script, director Gabriela Tagliavini manages to infuse humor and heart into each scene. The pacing keeps you engaged, moving seamlessly between moments of comedy and drama.
  • Cinematography: The picturesque backdrop of Madrid steals every frame. The city breathes life into the story, becoming a character in its own right. Kudos to the cinematographer for capturing its beauty with finesse.

Binge-watching Tips: Grab some Spanish snacks like churros or tapas to fully immerse yourself in the Madrid experience while watching “Despite Everything.” You might even pick up a few Spanish phrases along the way!

The film may not be groundbreaking, but it offers a light-hearted escape that is perfect for a cozy movie night. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let “Despite Everything” whisk you away on a charming adventure through Madrid.

In conclusion, “Despite Everything” may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it certainly serves up an enjoyable blend of comedy and drama against the enchanting backdrop of Madrid. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this feel-good flick with friends or family.

Rating: 7/10

Pros Cons
Visually pleasing Script lacks structure and originality
Great cast Storyline is considered boring
Beautiful filming locations in Madrid Comedy aspect is poor
Easy to follow storyline Some characters are uninteresting
Interesting enough for Spanish learners Relies heavily on the cast’s fame

Feedback

  • Despite Everything - Wikipedia

    ) is a popular 2019 Spanish comedy film directed by Gabriela Tagliavini and starring Blanca Suárez, Macarena García, Amaia Salamanca, and Belén Cuesta . The film premiered at the Málaga Film Festival on 16 March 2019, and released on Netflix on 3 May 2019, and was the most watched Netflix Original Spanish Film that year.

  • Despite Everything (2019) - IMDb

    Four different sisters who all have their own little secrets attend their mother’s funeral in Madrid, where the will reveals that their dad was not their biological father, so they go on a q… Read allFour different sisters who all have their own little secrets attend their mother’s funeral in Madrid, where the will reveals that their dad was not their biological father, so they go on a quest together seeking their biological father(s).Four different sisters who all have their own little secrets attend their mother’s funeral in Madrid, where the will reveals that their dad was not their biological father, so they go on a quest together seeking their biological father(s).

  • Watch Despite Everything | Netflix Official Site

    UNLIMITED TV SHOWS & MOVIESSign InPlans start at just $6.99After their mother’s death, four sisters learn a shocking family secret and embark on an adventure to discover the truth about their genealogy.Starring:Blanca Suárez, Macarena García, Amaia SalamancaPlans start at just $6.99Starring Blanca Suárez (“Cable Girls”), Amaia Salamanca (“Velvet”), Macarena García (“The Ministry of Time”), Belén Cuesta (“Paquita Salas”).Watch offlineDownload and watch everywhere you go.This movie is…Heartfelt, Emotional, RomanticAudio

  • Despite Everything (2019) - Plot - IMDb

    • Four different sisters who all have their own little secrets attend their mother’s funeral in Madrid, where the will reveals that their dad was not their biological father, so they go on a quest together seeking their biological father(s).
    • Sisters Sara, Lucía, Sofía, and Claudia are modern women with very different personalities who come together at their mother’s funeral, after which they discover that the man they all called “dad” is not really their father. They embark on a quest to discover who their real fathers are, discovering more about themselves, their mother, and their lives.—Netflix Media Center
    • DESPITE EVERYTHING, the movie starts with four daughters finding out that their mother Carmen (Marisa Paredes) has died. Four unique daughters with separate lives and personalities. Sara (Blanca Suárez) is a fashion executive in New York, City. Claudia (Belén Cuesta) who keeps it a secret that her husband has left and is seeking a divorce. Sofia (Amaia Salamanca) is the only gay sister and does not want to bring her girlfriend to the funeral. Then the fourth sister, Lucia (Macarena García) is a sexually adventurous woman who has few tie downs in her life and it shows.The mother is a successful woman and the four sisters must go to the attorney’s office to see how the estate will be divided. When there he the lawyer plays a video of Carmen disclosing to her daughters that she has hidden that they each have their own biological father. Furthermore the requirement to get their portion of the inheritance they all need to go out to seek, find and meet their fathers. They had always thought that Pedro is their father, he’s not.Good moments include Sara gets reunited with Alejandro (Maxi Iglesias), the love of her life whom she thought would follow her to the U.S. but did not. Very Handsome man with crystal blue eyes and wavy hair. It is great to watch these four mostly estranged sisters come together again. Searching unlikely places like to a monastery to talk to a monk who turns out to be the father of a the gay and atheist, Sofia . Also the transsexual cafe owner who becomes a sounding board for Lucia, provides a twist at the end of the film (one that was somewhat predictable) that she is her biological dad.It is a fun English Dubbed Spanish movie to watch and enjoy. Lighthearted and simple story not to take too seriously. Entertaining and the sisters are drop dead gorgeous as well. Check it out you will be glad you did! – Martin Snytsheuvel

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  • Despite Everything | Official Trailer | Netflix - YouTube

⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)

In “Despite Everything,” a heartwarming Spanish chick flick, the story follows four sisters brought together by their mother’s death. During the funeral, they discover from a video left by their late mother that their father is not their biological dad. Intrigued by this revelation, the sisters embark on a journey to uncover the truth about their real fathers while also confronting their personal issues.

The film mainly focuses on developing the relationships between the sisters, played by Sara, Lucía, Sofía, and Claudia. Despite the predictable plot and lack of originality, the chemistry between the lead actresses shines through, making the movie engaging and enjoyable. The sisters’ banter, comedic exchanges, and authentic sisterly bond add depth to the story, even though the plot fails to fully capitalize on these strong character dynamics.

Typical of the genre, “Despite Everything” incorporates familiar tropes like a formulaic plot progression, feel-good musical cues, and a neatly tied-up ending where character arcs are resolved. While the movie may not stand out among other chick flicks, it offers a pleasant viewing experience with likable characters and a cohesive sisterly dynamic that keeps the audience entertained until the end.

Overall, “Despite Everything” may not break new ground in the genre, but it successfully delivers on its charm, humor, and the bond between the four sisters, making it a worthwhile watch for those looking for a light-hearted and entertaining film.

👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating

TV-MA

Age Rating:

Despite Everything is rated for a mature audience of 15 years and older.

Parental Guide:

Despite Everything is a Spanish comedy film that follows the journey of four sisters who discover a shocking family secret after their mother’s death. The movie involves themes of family relationships, self-discovery, and comedic elements.

Here is a detailed parental guide for the content found in Despite Everything:

Category Content
Sex & Nudity The movie contains some mild sexual references and innuendos but no explicit sexual content or nudity.
Violence & Gore There are no intense or graphic violent scenes in the movie. Some mild confrontations and comedic situations are present.
Profanity Occasional use of mild language and humor throughout the film.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking There are scenes depicting social drinking but no drug use or smoking shown.
Frightening & Intense Scenes The movie is light-hearted and comedic in tone, with no intense or frightening scenes that would be unsuitable for teenagers.

Overall, Despite Everything is a lighthearted comedy suitable for teenagers aged 15 and above due to the themes and mild content present in the film.

📺 Streaming and where to watch

streaming service extra information
Netflix Despite Everything is available for streaming on Netflix.
Apple TV+ Watch similar movies on Apple TV+ for free with a 7-day trial.

❝ Quotes and Cult

  • Despite everything he's suffered he can still look at life in the most uncomplicated way. I've never known that kind of faith. It makes me so sad that people who have lost everything can still be open to love, while I, who have lost nothing, am not.

🤖Despite Everything Reddit Talks

Despite Everything has been a topic of discussion on Reddit, with users sharing their thoughts and opinions on the film. Here’s a summary of the main points raised in these discussions:

Book vs. Movie Effie:

  • Redditors praised the portrayal of Effie in the movie, believing it to be a significant improvement over her characterization in the book.
  • Movie Effie was seen as more complex and relatable, while book Effie was perceived as stereotypical and one-dimensional.

Themes and Symbolism:

  • The movie’s exploration of love and attachment, particularly in the context of the Jedi Order’s beliefs, sparked discussions among users.
  • Some argued that Anakin’s love for Padme was a red flag for the Jedi, while others defended his feelings as a natural part of the human experience.

Emotional Impact:

  • Users expressed their emotional reactions to the film, with many finding it intense and heartwarming.
  • The character of Jobu/Joy resonated with viewers, who empathized with her desire for connection and redemption.

Technical Aspects:

  • The movie’s visuals and cinematography were praised by users, who appreciated the attention to detail and the immersive experience it created.
  • The soundtrack was also noted for its emotional impact and ability to enhance the film’s atmosphere.

Overall Reception:

  • Redditors generally had positive reactions to Despite Everything, commending its strong performances, compelling story, and thought-provoking themes.
  • While some users had minor criticisms, the overall consensus was that the movie was a well-crafted and enjoyable cinematic experience.

Top discussions

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the movie “Despite Everything” about?

The movie “Despite Everything” follows the story of four sisters who discover a shocking family secret after their mother’s death and embark on an adventure to uncover the truth about their genealogy.

Where is Despite Everything filmed?

Despite Everything was filmed in and around Madrid, with key locations including the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor in the beautiful city.

What is the movie about the girl who can’t go outside?

The movie portrays a teenager who has spent her entire life confined to her home falling in love with the boy next door.

What is the movie about the girl who is allergic to the sun?

The film tells the story of a 17-year-old girl who suffers from a condition that prevents her from being in the sunlight.

What is the movie about 4 siblings on Netflix?

In the movie, four siblings return home after their father’s death, only to find themselves entangled in bickering and opportunistic backstabbing amidst their mourning.

Where was A pesar de todo filmed?

The movie “Despite Everything” was filmed on location in and around Madrid, showcasing iconic sites like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor.

🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show

  1. Step Sisters (2018) : A comedy about a black sorority girl who agrees to teach the art of Greek stepping to a house of party-obsessed white sorority sisters.
  2. Disconnected (2018) : A thriller that follows the lives of four people who all have secrets that come to light after a hacker threatens to reveal them.
  3. The Worst Christmas of My Life (2012) : A holiday comedy about a man who experiences a series of unfortunate events during Christmas.
  4. It’s for Your Own Good (2017) : A Spanish comedy about three fathers who go to extreme lengths to break up their daughters’ relationships.

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