Educational Media Reviews Online

Eva Ma captures the realism of documentary and takes on a highly enjoyable and informative journey into the life of one man and his family during a time of escalating and expanding economic recession. ~ Malcolm L. Rigsby

If you enjoy the drama of the feature film and the informative nature of documentary, you will find Domino: Caught in the Crisis (Domino: agarrado por la crisis) personally exciting and socially instructive. With an all-Spanish cast, the film set and filmed in Spain stars the well-known flamenco dancer Antonio de la Malena as Luiz. Domino awakens and personifies the effect of globalism. We are drawn into the character of Luiz, a middle-aged man who has lost his long held job and is forced into a desperate story of self-redemption as he seeks to save face, support his family, and come to grips with the reality that much is beyond his control.

The plot for Domino is set against the globalizing effect of the United States recession. As with globalization, it is not only the benefits of technology and capitalism that have an effect on other parts of the world, but also such ill-effects as downturns in economies, labor value, and unemployment. As the US has arguably stabilized, the recent downturn in the economy of other nations such as Spain have suffered the delayed but substantial effect in turn. This film portrays vividly a central point: macro-structural changes have micro-individual and meso-group effects that may be devastating to the common citizen. Moreover, in today’s world what happens rapidly dominos around the world and affects other governments and corporations as well as individuals and families with real names, desires, needs, and anxieties.

Ma, who wrote and directed Domino, portrays the family in realistic fashion. She brings us into the world of Luis. We share his troubles and sorrows as well as his comforts and happiness. What is the end of the story? Does he prevail, does he survive, or does he fail? See the film! Regardless, you will find personal reward and reflection in what you have both learned and personally experienced.

Domino: Caught in the Crisis offers excellent film shots and sound. Editing creates a good flow and keeps the viewer intrigued about the lives of the characters. The end captures genuine reality in portraying real times. The film may be employed as part of discussion groups that are exploring sociology, economics, politics, capitalism and psychology. The distributor provides a film trailer and it may be purchased at the Domino blogspot or rented online at Domino Productions.