The Doorman

Rating:
Summary: Doors of Perception
Review: I admit it, I did not pay attention to Reynaldo Arenas' work until the release of the film version of "Before Night Falls." I'm happy that so much attention has been paid to such a great writer, but the irony, like that permeating his writing, is that the world is shown this great artist only a decade after his death.

Of course "Before Night Falls" his memoir, is pivotal, but I was interested in "The Doorman" because I wanted to see what Arenas' friend, Lazaro, inspired him to write, or co-write, as was referenced in the film. Also, imagining the handsome actor Olivier Martinez (who played Lazaro, who actually was a doorman) being Juan the doorman in the book, made it special and sexy.

But the book! A wonderful, brief, concise and utterly charming allegory of suffering, immigration, and the absurdities of metropolitan life. I think the animals are meant to represent the various factions of oppressed people under Cuban communism, who cannot agree on how to escape. By limiting his setting to mostly the building where he works, Arenas provides a microcosm of human idiocy and animal desperation.

This is a must-have for all new Reynaldo Arenas fans. Thanks to his friend Lazaro for inspiring this soulful jewel.

Rating:
Summary: fantastic
Review: I love every one of Arenas' works, but this one might be my favorite if only for its comedy, absurdity and depth-- all wielded with perfect balance and execution. A great and often overlooked work by a seriously overlooked writer.

Rating:
Summary: A true masterpiece!
Review: This is a truly brilliant work of art!