The Family Tree

Synopsis:

In his latest film, provocative auteur Jorge Ameer narrates a nostalgic Christmas story based on a old Panamanian holiday tradition. Víctor Gardel, a lonely workaholic, rescues animals for a local shelter. He loves the end of the year celebrations. From small, he would create life size dolls made out of newspaper and explosives to celebrate the end of year festivities. However, this holiday season will prove unforgettable as Victor’s latest creation comes to life to disrupt and enlighten him on the true meaning of love, friendship and family. Life ,as he knows it, is about to change. The holiday spectre will teach him to cherish the moments that makes lasting memories, as what was once is no more.

Quick Thoughts:

I really wanted to enjoy The Family Tree. The premise starts off a bit unique, but not too unrealistic. Even though Roy makes it clear that he is not gay, you can sense some underlying sexual fluidity. Even the most desperate undocumented immigrant would not agree to marrying a stranger unless there’s something else pulling them together. But despite some intriguing starting points and overlooking some very amateur cinematic elements, this foreign queer Christmas film takes a sudden twist halfway through that is more akin to jumping off a cliff! I won’t reveal any spoilers, but it’s not a cheerful ending despite a last minute effort to bring the story full circle. I don’t say this lightly, but I’d skip over The Family Tree and watch something else.