Name: How to Deal with a Heartbreak
Genre: Comedy
Released: 2023-07-06T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Gisela Ponce de León, Karina Jordán, Jely Reategui, Salvador del Solar, Norma Martínez

The opening scene of How to Deal with a Heartbreak sets an awkward but intriguing tone. María Fe (Gisela Ponce de León), our 30-something author-influencer protagonist, sits cross-legged on her bed, laptop open, staring at a blank document titled “Heartbreak Guide.” The cursor blinks mockingly as she chews her lip, then abruptly types: “Step One: Cry in the Shower.” It’s an oddly relatable moment—a woman trying to turn her personal pain into professional advice—but it also hints at the film’s struggle to balance comedy and drama.

Directed by Joanna Lombardi, this Peruvian romantic comedy follows María Fe as she navigates the aftermath of a breakup. She attempts to write a self-help guide while making all the wrong decisions herself. The premise is promising: a woman turning her personal pain into professional advice sounds like fertile ground for wit and introspection. However, How to Deal with a Heartbreak stumbles in its execution, never fully committing to either comedy or drama.

The film’s strongest asset is its ensemble cast. Gisela Ponce de León delivers a performance that balances vulnerability and humor, even if the script sometimes lets her down. Her portrayal of María Fe is nuanced, capturing the protagonist’s frustration, self-doubt, and occasional moments of clarity. Karina Jordán as Natalia, María Fe’s best friend, steals scenes with her sharp wit and unwavering loyalty. Their dynamic feels authentic, grounded in a friendship that has weathered many storms. Jely Reategui as Carolina adds warmth and levity, providing much-needed comedic relief. Salvador del Solar as Fernando brings a grounded energy to his role, offering a steady presence amidst the chaos.

The chemistry between these actors elevates the material, making their conversations feel genuine even when the plot veers into clichés. Jason Day as Luca and Christopher Von Uckermann as Santiago provide compelling romantic interests, each representing different paths María Fe could take. Day’s Luca is charming but unpredictable, while Uckermann’s Santiago is stable but unexciting. These contrasts highlight María Fe’s internal conflict—her struggle between security and passion.

Visually, Lombardi’s direction is competent but unremarkable. There are no standout shots or bold stylistic choices—just straightforward framing and pacing that keeps the story moving without ever feeling distinctive. The cinematography is functional, with soft lighting and simple compositions that prioritize dialogue over visual storytelling. The soundtrack, a mix of Latin pop and indie tracks, occasionally hits the right note but mostly fades into the background.

Where the film falters is in its storytelling. The plot meanders between María Fe’s attempts to write her guide and her misguided romantic entanglements with Luca and Santiago. These subplots feel disjointed, as if Lombardi couldn’t decide whether she wanted a rom-com or a character-driven drama. The pacing is uneven, rushing through emotional beats that deserve more time to breathe. For instance, María Fe’s decision to get involved with Luca feels abrupt and unexplored, lacking the buildup needed to make it feel earned.

The themes of heartbreak and healing are explored but never delved into deeply. María Fe’s journey is one of self-discovery and growth, but the film often settles for surface-level insights. The “Heartbreak Guide” she writes becomes a metaphor for her own healing process, but the narrative doesn’t fully commit to this idea. Scenes where she interacts with her friends or reflects on her past relationships feel rushed, leaving little room for introspection.

The ending, while rushed, attempts to tie up María Fe’s arc neatly—showing her growth and healing in a way that feels earned despite the film’s structural flaws. It’s a small victory in an otherwise messy narrative. The final scene, where María Fe finally completes her guide, is satisfying but leaves one wishing for more depth.

How to Deal with a Heartbreak has moments of charm and humor, but it never fully commits to its potential. The performances are solid, and the cast’s chemistry is a highlight, but the script and direction hold it back from being truly memorable. It’s a film that will resonate most with those who enjoy lighthearted romantic comedies with a touch of drama. For viewers looking for deeper character studies or more nuanced explorations of heartbreak, it may fall short.

Comparatively, How to Deal with a Heartbreak lacks the sharp wit and emotional depth of films like The Big Sick or Crazy, Stupid, Love. Those movies balance humor and drama seamlessly, offering both laughs and genuine emotional resonance. In contrast, Lombardi’s film often feels torn between genres, never fully embracing either.

Ultimately, How to Deal with a Heartbreak is a mixed bag. It has its heart in the right place but struggles to find its footing. The performances are strong, and the premise is intriguing, but the execution leaves much to be desired.