'Y Llegaron De Noche' Review: Eugenio Derbez Shines in a Heartwarming Comedy"
- Details
- Category: New Series and Movie Reviews
- Published: Thursday, 17 October 2024 16:55
- Written by Lupe R Haas
After more than a decade, Eugenio Derbez makes his return to Spanish-language comedy with Y Llegaron de Noche for TelevisaUnivision's streaming platform, VIX. This original series is based on the fascinating true events surrounding the making of the Spanish version of the 1931 classic DRACULA. Film history enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the lighthearted take on the early years of Universal's iconic Classic Monsters franchise.
The show explores the behind-the-scenes drama when Universal Studios founder Carl Laemmle (played by Seinfeld’s Jason Alexander) greenlights a concurrent Spanish-language production of DRACULA. While Bela Lugosi and the English-speaking crew film during the day, the Spanish-speaking team takes over the same sets and costumes by night. According to critics of the time, this version resulted in a superior adaptation.
Derbez takes on the role of Carlos Villarias, the Spanish actor cast as Dracula. Villarias, a narcissistic thespian, considers the role beneath him and complicates production with his diva-like antics, providing much of the show’s comedic edge.
Though billed as a Spanish-language series, Y Llegaron de Noche is a bilingual production, much like Derbez’s AppleTV+ series Acapulco. The mix of English and Spanish, along with clever dialogue and charming characters, adds to its universal appeal. Like Acapulco, this series is good-natured fun, with a sharp sense of humor and a nostalgic feel, thanks to its vibrant 1930s-inspired cinematography and wardrobe.
The supporting cast is equally delightful. Jason Alexander shines as the high-energy Carl Laemmle, the passionate studio boss. AJ Vaage portrays iconic film producer Paul Kohner, while Yare Santana brings innocence and charm to her portrayal of Lupita Tovar, a legendary Hollywood star. However, the standout performance comes from Sofía Niño de Rivera as the no-nonsense translator who isn’t afraid to call it as she sees it.
With its backdrop of early Hollywood, the rise of Universal Classic Monsters, and Latinos in cinema like Lupita Tovar, Y Llegaron de Noche is a rich and entertaining look into film history. For movie buffs, the behind-the-scenes antics of early filmmaking are a treat, offering humor and historical insights.
The first two episodes of Y Llegaron de Noche are now streaming on VIX, with the first episode available for non-subscribers.