"Intimate stories" (= "Historias mínimas") is a simple but enchanting film that allows the spectator to witness some moments in the lives of three very different people that wish only one thing: to reach San Julian.
Reaching San Julian (a nearby Argentinian town) mean something different for each of them. Maria (Javiera Bravo), a young and very poor mother that wishes to win something at a television show; Roberto (Javier Lombardo), a salesman that hopes to buy the perfect cake for the son of the woman he loves in silence; and Don Justo (Antonio Benedicti), an old man that wants to find "Badface", the dog he lost a long time ago...
At first sight, those stories seem unimportant. There is not too much action, and nothing even remotely controversial. However, that is not the point. The point is to appreciate this little jewel for what it is, a collection of real moments, instead of what it is not, a Hollywood superproduction. If you are able to do that, you will enjoy the journey of these three characters through the immense and beautiful Patagonia. They are all different, but they share the hope that something good can be found at San Julian.
In my opinion, this small Argentinian film, directed by Carlos Sorín, is not for everybody. On the other hand, those who don't mind the relatively slow pace and pay attention to details are likely to find that they didn't waste their time watching "Intimate stories".
Belen Alcat