‘Mad Bills to Pay (or Destiny, dile que no soy malo)’ Review: A Colorfully Raw New York Story That Skirts the Line Between Doc and Theater

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Just like an authentic slice of 99-cent New York pizza, Mad Bills to Pay (or Destiny, as if I’m not good) provides a candid perspective into a Bronx household that feels so genuine, it’s hard to believe you’re watching a film.

Despite the raw, captivating allure of this first-time effort by director-writer Joel Alfonso Vargas, it often feels like an intimate, live-action play unfolding in our community, graced with emerging local talents. These passionate actors frequently engage in heated exchanges as they strive to preserve their fictitious family unit. At times, the performance can be both gripping and slightly raw, yet never lacking authenticity.

The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a sweltering summer in New York City, introducing us to 19-year-old Ricardo, or Rico (played by Juan Collado), a resident of the Bronx who spends his days peddling illicit mixed drinks at Orchard Beach. Known locally as “nut busters” or “nutters,” these beverages are a popular choice for beachgoers seeking refreshment under the sun. Rico, a boisterous character with a penchant for talkative excess, is someone who initially seems entertaining to spend time with, but quickly becomes overwhelming after just a few minutes.

It appears that his mother, Yohanna Florentino, and sister, Nathaly Navarro, share this sentiment as they continue to reside in their compact Pelham Bay apartment, unable to leave. This tight-knit Dominican American family, who often find themselves at odds, effortlessly switch between English and Spanish while arguing about matters such as curfews, marijuana use, control of the television, and vaccinations. Their discussions can escalate to high volumes when tensions rise.

If Rico’s life is typically characterized by frequent fights and a lifestyle heavily influenced by weed and alcohol, things get even more chaotic when he tells his mom that he has impregnated Destiny Checo, a 16-year-old girl. With the intention of raising the baby, Rico brings Destiny into his small room, pledging to be both a good father and partner, yet lacking a clear strategy on how to make this happen.

reminiscent though its storyline of urban teenage pregnancy and city turmoil may be, this Bronx narrative is unique in its presentation. Alfonso Vargas creatively arranges each scene as a static tableau, offering an uncut flow of time for the events to unfold. This technique lends a sense of authenticity, making it appear as if the film was shot covertly. Additionally, it serves to mitigate certain scenes where the acting may come off as forced or excessive, despite the generally solid performances throughout.

As a gamer, I’m immersed in the gritty reality of Mad Bills to Pay, a game that takes me beyond the usual glitz and glamour into the heart of the outer-borough life. The game’s backdrop shifts from MTA buses and subways to a bustling seafood shack on City Island, where I find myself temporarily employed. This game offers an authentic portrayal of city life that seldom graces mainstream series or films.

The game is filled with intense fights and palpable animosity, but it’s not all about conflict. Alfonso Vargas skillfully weaves in a tight-knit community where family, despite their flaws and my own frustrations, takes precedence over everything else.

In this world, there’s beauty found even amidst urban decay. Director and cinematographer Rufai Ajala, capturing scenes in a 4/3 format with rounded edges, create striking compositions from their environment. A beachfront is framed against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, while Rico navigates the sand with his cooler; an LED screen advertising unhealthy fast food pulses with light as the sun sets over a bustling street; a family hosts a gender reveal party in a public park, their white attire contrasted by lush greenery surrounding them endlessly.

In the vibrant settings of the Bronx, Rico navigates his new role as a first-time father while striving to break free from the pattern set by his distant father. Essentially, “Mad Bills to Pay” revolves around Rico’s journey toward maturity and accountability, learning that actions speak louder than words. Throughout much of his life, Rico has been known for his outspokenness; however, as the story unfolds, he is forced to back up his talk with action when it comes to managing his earnings.

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2025-01-31 21:25