The Spanish film Me, Too (Yo, tambien) tells the story of Daniel Sanz (Pablo Pineda), the first Down’s Syndrome individual to graduate from University in Europe. After studying teaching and education psychology, Daniel takes a job as an assistant in the General Office for Disabled Persons and forms a friendship with coworker Laura (Lola Duenas). The two quickly become close, and it’s not long before Daniel falls in love.As a result of a vigorous education, Daniel is ‘more advanced’ intellectually and developmentally than most individuals with Down’s Syndrome. His thoughts on art, politics, culture, history and literature surpass those of most of his coworkers, but in spite of his insights, he is still largely considered childlike. At more than 30 years of age, as his brother and sister-in-law expect their first child, Daniel struggles with his own desire to fit into mainstream society, find love and one day start a family of his own.
Me, Too depicts love in a variety of forms, from the tradition and comfort of long-time married life, to the purely sexual and areas between. The film raises questions of a disabled person's right to choose and whether they have the capacity to make decisions about their own lives and bodies.With that in mind, Me,Too isn’t so much about acceptance and treatment of disabled persons, but rather the universal search for love. People yearn for love and acceptance regardless of whether they graduate university, have a career, or need help tying their shoelaces. Me, Too plays on feelings we all experience – fear of fitting in and being accepted, and the desire to find someone to love who loves us in return.
Daniel faces the same challenges of any individual searching for love, and through it all, he’s hopelessly and determinedly optimistic. Me, Too is a touching, humorous twist on the traditional love story that is certain to appeal to all audiences.
Catch the Canadian premiere of Me, Too at the Globe Theatre on Thursday, September 30th, or the encore screening Saturday, October 2nd at 2:45pm.
