Norberto's Deadline

Norberto (Fernando Amaral) is a mild-mannered real estate agent searching for meaning in his otherwise mundane life. After attending a local production, Norberto is drawn to the theatre. Already planning to attend an effective communication seminar to boost his self esteem and speaking to clients, Norberto enrolls in a local acting class.

Focusing all of his newfound energy into acting, Norberto struggles to maintain a balance between his ‘real life’ – his job and personal relationships – and his ‘stage life’. Relations with his wife and friends begin to suffer as Norberto throws himself into his first role, a small but vital speaking part.

It’s unclear if Norberto is driven by his desire to find contentment or if he’s simply bored with his day-to-day reality. In what could be another ‘mid-life crisis’ tale, Norberto’s Deadline is appealing precisely because it effectively captures a snapshot of one man’s life, highlighting the impact that even the smallest decisions can effect. The film is a warm and relatable study on daily life, following a character who is, if not extraordinary, certainly genuine.

You can catch Norbero’s Deadline this evening, Monday, September 27th, 7pm at the Eau Claire Cineplex Odeon.