I Like It Like That

Rating:
Summary: A vibrant slice of urban Latino life
Review: "I Like It Like That," written and directed by Darnell Martin, tells the story of Lisette (Lauren Velez), a young Latina living in the Bronx. When her husband, Chino (Jon Seda) gets into serious trouble, Lauren must support their family. Her attempts to find self-respect and economic stability bring her into conflict with Chino, with her scheming, materialistic mother-in-law (Rita Moreno), and with a white record company executive (Griffin Dunne). Along the way, she gets advice and moral support from Alexis (Jesse Borrego), her sibling, who is a male-to-female transsexual.

"I Like It" is a film that is full of life. Through his characters, director Martin offers thoughtful insights on ethnicity, gender identity, family ties, economic pressures, and other issues. The Santeria religion is an interesting backdrop to some of the plot. And the film as a whole is well complemented by a diverse musical score: I heard such elements as R&B, rap, and salsa.

The film is enhanced by excellent performances by the mostly Latino cast. It is especially fun to see Latina icon Rita Moreno playing the role of the arrogant mother-in-law (who boasts of her family's "pure Castillian blood") with gusto. Tomas Melly is impressive as Lisette's young son, who faces the temptations of the street. But perhaps the most memorable performance is delivered by Jesse Borrego as the transgendered Alexis; he is alternatingly bitchy, nurturing, witty, and heartbreaking, but always with a core of dignity. I give this film an enthusiastic recommendation.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent,Classic,Authentic
Review: I like it like that is a film like no other, it is as real as it can get. This movie brings me back when growing up in a Spanish Harlem. It is realistic, from the beginning to the end. Each character in this movie is some one we know out there, they are so believable, that one could swear they've come across some of them at some point in their lives.

The plot of the story is very realistic l, from the financial difficulties and struggles that some Latin people in New York City come bypass very day, to the love and romance in the two individuals feel for each other. It's a true example to how every day is a struggle to survive and make ends meet on top of all the discrimination that some go through out in the real world.

Over all, this film will make you cry, laugh and re-think about the struggles that some people have to go through to get to where they are or they want to be.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful
Review: Lauren Velez gives a perfect performance. The movie feels honest and sincere, and has a "rough around the edges" quality about it that makes it feel genuine. Excellent acting and story. Highly recommended.

Rating:
Summary: My favorite Movie of all time
Review: This movie cam out wheni was about 12 and I feel in love with this movie. The realness it shows in a realtionship, not all that lovey dovey stuff in the romantic movies. It bigs up my home town the Bx. The movie is crazy funny, you shouyld really check it out. If you love the real life drama check this movie out.

Rating:
Summary: This movie made me feel like I was at home
Review: This movie was a true tell it like it is story. I myself am latin, grew up in NY. I felt the whole time I was watching this movie like I was at home. Everything about Lizette's life had some similarity to mine. I like the way they kept it real. If you are latin and grew up in NY this is a must see, but don't see it alone invite that crazy cousin you grew up with. You know the one!