Is Breaking the Brick Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2022)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Breaking the Brick, a standout production of 2022, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Documentary landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into In 2019, millions of Chileans rose up in a popular revolt that resulted in radical change: the call for an assembly that will change the constitution imposed by the Pinochet dictatorship and its economic neoliberal model, referred to as ‘The Brick’. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "In 2019, millions of Chileans rose up in a popular revolt that resulted in radical change: the call for an assembly that will change the constitution imposed by the Pinochet dictatorship and its economic neoliberal model, referred to as ‘The Brick’. This change is seen through the eyes of two Chileans from opposing sides of the political spectrum. They experience a year of turmoil as protests give way to transformation. On the one side Ramiro, a wealthy businessman, and on the other side Mariana, a lower middle-class teacher. Historical conflicts that were long thought resolved come to light as the assembly process draws closer, showing how the wounds of a brutal dictatorship are deep, lasting and must be reconciled at all costs."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The performance by Mariana San Martín is nothing short of transformative, providing an emotional anchor that tethers the film's more abstract concepts to a relatable human experience. Mariana San Martín captures the nuance of the script with a performance that will likely define their career for years to come.

The direction by Rafael Valdeavellano is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 91 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Breaking the Brick truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 7/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Breaking the Brick explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2022 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Rafael Valdeavellano respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Breaking the Brick serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Mariana San Martín or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Breaking the Brick is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.