The recent DVD release of audience and critically acclaimed 2012 thriller from Paraguay "7 Boxes" is one of the latest examples of how Philadelphia-based Breaking Glass Pictures is nipping at the heels of neighbor TLA video regarding wonderfully gritty indie films such as "Boxes" and a wide range of terrific gay-and-lesbian themed movies.
"Boxes" evokes thoughts of the 1994 film "Speed" in that it turns a simple concept into an exciting and tense film. The element of the unknown contents of the titular containers contributes a touch of "Pulp Fiction."
"Boxes" is also like "Speed" in that it is a low-budget film that sets most of the film in one location. In this case, it is a bustling maze-like marketplace in Paraguay. Another common aspect is the element of the likable main character having his world instantly turned upside down.
The following clip, courtesy of YouTube, of the trailer for "Boxes" offers glimpses of the thrills and chills in the film. The viewer also gets a sense of the element that there is never a dull minute.
The simple premise is that 17 year-old delivery boy Victor, who almost certainly future international star Celso Franco plays, is hired to initially use his dolly-like wheelbarrow to move the boxes to a safe location and ultimately deliver them to a location that he receives via a call on a borrowed cell phone. The compensation of $100 US is a small fortune from the perspective of this young man.
The multiple wrinkles that provide Victor angst and the audience entertainment include not knowing the contents of the boxes, the wrath of the vicious and desperate courier who was supposed to do the job, and hot pursuit by both the law and the outlaws. One quasi spoiler is that at least one head rolls in the film.
The filmmakers do an excellent job laying out every element of the ensuing mayhem and providing terrific suspense and drama related to the efforts of Victor to keep both his cargo and his person intact long enough to complete the delivery.
Further, the hectic nature of the marketplace and literal backroom elements of the story are perfect settings for the events of "Boxes." Everything (including the cast and their motives) seems very authentic.
There additionally is plenty of great humor; a hilariously dark misunderstanding is at the center of the film, the cop on the beat has plenty of room for improvement, and a language barrier provides some laughs.
Providing many more specifics runs the risk of significantly diminishing the impact of "Boxes." It is fair to say that you will relate to Victor, laugh, and sit on the edge of your seat.
Anyone with questions or comments regarding "Boxes" is encouraged to email me; you can also connect on Twitter via @tvdvdguy.
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