

Clever
Still bitter from a recent divorce, martial arts instructor Clever discovers a car tricked out with flames in his neighborhood and sets out on a single-minded quest: to find the artist and treat his own vehicle. His journey leads to a secluded village, and to an enigmatic personality who isn’t quite what he expects. Delightfully odd and idiosyncratic, Clever is an absurd satire of the fragile façade of masculinity.
Insights
Plot Summary
In the rural outskirts of Argentina, a young boy named Clever navigates a harsh reality marked by poverty and his father's absence. He dreams of becoming a professional soccer player, using the sport as an escape from his difficult circumstances. As he faces numerous challenges, Clever must find a way to reconcile his aspirations with the demands of his life.
Critical Reception
Clever received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of rural Argentine life and its compelling coming-of-age narrative. It was praised for its raw emotional depth and the natural performances of its young cast, particularly Joaquín Nahuel Gennero in the titular role. The film resonated with audiences for its sensitive exploration of dreams, resilience, and the socioeconomic realities faced by many in developing regions.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its authentic and sensitive portrayal of childhood in rural Argentina.
- Commended for strong performances from its young, largely unknown cast.
- Hailed as a moving and realistic coming-of-age story.
Google audience: Specific Google user reviews for 'Clever (2015)' are not readily available in a summarized format. However, general audience reception typically highlights its emotional impact and realistic depiction of life.
Awards & Accolades
Won the Grand Prix at the Cinéma du Réel festival in Paris and received the Audience Award at the Miami International Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film was shot in the San Juan province of Argentina, and many of the extras were locals from the communities where filming took place, adding to its authentic feel.
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