Pedro Paramo on Netflix: Is it worth watching? 

The Netflix movie Pedro Paramo, directed by Rodrigo Prieto, premiered on November 6, 2024. The cast includes Ishbel Bautista, Mayra Batalla, Ari Brickman, and Manuel Garcia-Rulfo. Adapted by Mateo Gil from Juan Rulfo’s 1955 novel, the story follows Pedro Paramo, the corrupt leader of Comala, whose rule is marked by crime, adultery, and abuse, ultimately leading to his downfall.

The plot of this magic realism movie moves quickly, several plot points jump about, and there is a lot of unnecessary drama. The movie moves from one chronology to another, and includes a ton of characters, making it difficult to follow, therefore not making it worth a watch.

The synopsis for the film as per Rotten Tomatoes reads as,

"Based on Juan Rulfo’s masterpiece novel, considered one of the most important books in the history of Mexico and Latin America, the novel narrates the story of Juan Preciado, who upon his mother’s death, goes to the remote village where he was born in search of his father, Pedro Páramo... of desire, hope, regret and resentment..."

Note: This piece is based on the author's opinion and not Sportskeeda's. Spoilers for Pedro Paramo can be present in this article. Reader discretion is advised.)

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Pedro Paramo is a confusing film due to its intricate plot, numerous characters, and bizarre ending

A still of Pedro Paramo (Image by Netflix)

At the opening of the film Pedro Paramo, Pedro's son arrives in Comala to search for his father. However, before he can get there, he finds out that his father was murdered years ago, thus ending his search and ultimately leading to his death, because of the cursed town of Comala.

The movie's main character, Pedro Paramo, is portrayed as a womanizer, macho, corrupt, power-hungry, and megalomaniacal individual. However, the actor who plays Pedro (Manuel Garcia-Rulfo), the primary character, fails to live up to the expectations due to a lack of virility and excitement, which might disappoint viewers.

The film opens with a few jump scares, giving the impression that it majorly will be a horror movie, but it quickly shifts to a historical account of Pedro's life, his corruption, and finally his demise, which is disappointing for audiences once more. There are several characters in the movie, which again makes it difficult to watch because spectators are left unsure of their identities and roles.

The movie's conclusion also seems sudden, when Pedro is murdered by one of his illegitimate offspring. In addition to Pedro's tragedy, the enigmatic death of Pedro's sweetheart is perplexing and leaves viewers wondering how she passed away.

The film however has done a better job with the background score, scenery, and costumes, all of which go well with the historic Mexican backdrop. Those familiar with the novel may find the movie particularly engaging and gain a deeper understanding of its characters.

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Final verdict: It will be challenging to watch this two-hour, twelve-minute film for interested moviegoers who haven't read the book. Viewers will be left wondering what the plot means, what message the movie is trying to convey, and why it was made in the first place.

Rating - 2/5

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Pedro Paramo is now streaming on Netflix.