Directed by: Matt Piedmont
Starring: Will Ferrell, Gael García Bernal, Diego Luna, Nick Offerman, Genesis Rodriguez
MPAA Rating: R
Distributed by: Lions Gate
Release Date: July 17, 2012
Running Time: 84 minutes
Film: 3 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars
Will Ferrell is one of my favorite comedic actors. He always manages to make me laugh. His film roles recently have been hit or miss, he is still one of my favorites. “Casa”, unfortunately sits right on the border of hit or miss. When I heard the idea of a comedy that features Will Ferrell speaking only Spanish, I thought it would be the funniest idea ever. Even though the film runs only 84 minutes, its angle gets old after about 30 minutes. Don’t get me wrong it is still funny but I do not think it is something I will be able to re-watch and quote (especially since I don’t speak Spanish) like “Anchorman”. Fans of Ferrell, I suggest you give it a shot but just don’t expect to fall on your ass laughing.
The film follows Armando Alvarez (Ferrell) who lives a simple life living and working on his father’s ranch in Mexico. Armando’s younger brother Raul (and his father’s favorite), shows up with his new fiancé, Sonia when the ranch encounters financial problems. Since Raul’s is a very successful international businessman, he pledges to settle all debts his father has incurred. Things get sticky when Armando falls for his brothers wife Sonia and Raul’s success is coming from working with drug lord, the mighty Onza.
The 1080p transfer isn’t really made to look amazing since it is purposely low-budget and parodied. The Spanish audio included is an DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. The special features included are a commentary track by director Matt Piedmont, writer/producer Andrew Steele, and Will Ferrell. There is a Behind-the-scenes featurette and a few deleted scenes included as well. There is a funny music video for “Fight for Love” by Will Ferrell and Genesis Rodriguez. I love when Will Ferrell sings. There are four different “Commerciales” starring Will Ferrell, Diego Luna, Genesis Rodriguez, Efren Ramirez, and Nick Offerman. These together are funnier than the film. Lastly Pedro Armendáriz Jr.’s final interview is included.