Loving Pablo

If I hadn’t seen the TV show Narcos I would have been more excited about this film. Javier Bardem’s portrayal of Pablo Escobar is simply out of this world! However, in terms of the story, the film contains opinions, situations and plots that I have already seen once in the TV show, so I watched the movie, acknowledging its qualities, but all the time I was saying to myself... I know this, and this as well. Still, the movie managed to surprise me twice and thanks to some of its qualities and the incredible Javier Bardem, whom I wouldn’t even have recognized under normal circumstances, the film definitely deserves a four-star rating. (2019-02-28)

Javier Bardem excels as drug kingpin Pablo Escobar in this brisk and entertaining biopic. His only and rather fundamental problem is that it tells the same story as Narcos, only trying to cram it into two hours instead of two seasons. Those familiar with that series will find nothing but above average craftsmanship and great actors. Those who don't will also find a riveting story of a madman who managed to rewrite history thanks to coke. (2018-07-26)

As a true and dedicated fan of Narcos, you have to compare this with other works, knowing full well which one will come out on top. Narcos managed to detail Escobar's character intricately during its first two seasons, and also gave sufficient screen time to other characters, making them significantly important. It's understandable that a film like Loving Pablo can't fit the same amount of material into a single feature as the series did. I liked that they put the journalist Vallejo in the lead role, which offered a different perspective on the notorious criminal. However, the film’s portrayal of Escobar’s life seemed a bit rushed, with some elements missing. The subplot involving the DEA agent was particularly weak, lacking emotional connection. Bardem’s performance was a strong point, presenting a credible and distinct portrayal of Pablo. The ending was decent, but Narcos remains superior in this aspect. The film has its quality and is worth a recommendation, but it doesn't dethrone Narcos. I give it 70%. (2018-07-13)

I expected a little better. For those unfamiliar with Narcos, the film is a decent choice, but for fans of the series, nothing really new. Javier Bardem is surprisingly solid as Escobar, and Penelope Cruz is alluring as the journalist, but there's a lack of charisma and creativity. An unused DEA agent, a lack of action, and only the dog or motorcycle scene impress with their brutality. I wasn't bored, but the film didn't bring anything new to the table. So Escobar has to make do with three stars. 60% (2018-07-12)

A film that excels in individual scenes and specific passages rather than as an overall biographical reconstruction of the story of one of the most dangerous criminals of all time. Bardem is amazing, Cruz delivers her standard. A solid addition to the genre, nothing groundbreaking or extremely clever or innovative, plus it takes its eyes off the ball in the most violent scenes – that’s something that would never happen to Scorsese. (2018-06-24)