“La Mala Familia,” a Spanish documentary directed by Nacho A Villar and Luis Rojo, premiered on Netflix on June 15, 2023. The film has a runtime of 1 hour 21 minutes. It explores the real-life case of Andres Pizarro and highlights the impact of his incarceration on his isolation and alienation.
It is a refreshing portrayal of young immigrants in the outskirts of Madrid. The film strikes a delicate balance between fiction and documentary, devoid of empty moralizing or manipulative compassion. The film has already gained recognition at the Seville and Rotterdam film festivals, and more screenings are expected.
Set in Madrid, this documentary follows the group of teenagers known as ‘La Mala Familia’ which means ‘The Bad Family,’ including Andrés and Nata. Their violent altercation fueled by testosterone and alcohol has severe consequences. Andrés faces a year in custody and a traumatic trial, while others struggle to pay fines. The film explores the aftermath and how these events have affected their lives and friendships.
It immerses the audience in the protagonists’ world, offering a compelling and understated narrative about the uncaring justice system. The storyline may seem ambiguous, but as the documentary progresses, we see the friends reuniting and discussing how their lives have changed. Some now have families, making it even more challenging to pay off their fines.
Taking a naturalistic approach, this documentary portrays ‘La Mala Familia’ in their neighborhood, reflecting their identity. While race and identity discussions arise, the focus remains on the men sharing their personal experiences of being in prison.
You can watch ‘La Mala Familia’ aka The bad family on Netflix
