7:20 Once a Week (originally titled En tu piel) is a 2018 Dominican Republic romantic drama directed by Matías Bize. The film stars Eva Arias as Julia and Josue Guerrero as Manuel, two married individuals who, after a chance encounter, embark on a weekly affair that challenges their perceptions of love, fidelity, and personal fulfillment.
Plot Overview
Julia and Manuel meet by chance one evening and share an intense night together. Despite their brief encounter, they realize that a genuine connection has developed between them, transcending mere physical attraction. Both being married, they decide to continue their liaison once a week at 7:20, leading them to question their current life choices and the possibility of something more fulfilling.
Themes and Execution
The film delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of desire, infidelity, and the search for emotional connection. Bize employs a minimalist approach, focusing primarily on the two central characters and their evolving relationship. This intimate portrayal is accentuated by long takes and a confined setting, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the characters’ emotions and motivations.
Reception
7:20 Once a Week received mixed reviews from audiences and critics. Some viewers appreciated the film’s deep exploration of complex emotions and praised the performances of Arias and Guerrero. An IMDb user review noted, “It’s a very deep movie, with excellent performances by both lead actors… Long camera shots give the chance to express the emotions well.
However, others felt that the film’s numerous explicit scenes overshadowed its narrative depth. A reviewer on Letterboxd commented, “First off, let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room: this movie is steamy. Within the first seven minutes, there were already two graphic sex scenes… While it initially felt bold and raw, the sheer number of them started feeling like overkill.”
Conclusion
7:20 Once a Week offers an intimate look into the lives of two individuals grappling with their desires and the moral implications of their actions. While the film’s explicit content may not appeal to all viewers, its exploration of human emotions and relationships provides a thought-provoking experience for those interested in character-driven narratives.
For those interested in viewing the film, here’s the official trailer:
