Bravo to Gringa!!!

Gringa holds a special place in my heart.

Unlike most films produced in recent years Gringa is fun, clean and perfect for the whole family.

Following the story line of a young woman who is coming of age and discovering who she is. After an unfortunate event finds herself beginning an adventure of a lifetime that will change her life forever.

While watching this movie I was quickly drawn into the story line and as the story progressed so did an array of positive emotions.

I would strongly recommend watching this film whether it be with your significant other, friends or with the whole family!!

Greetings again from the darkness. When a 16 year old girl has self-esteem issues, it can be painful to watch. As adults, we know it's likely to get better, although it's also possible things get worse before they improve. And 'things getting worse' is exactly what happens to Marge in this film co-directed by Marny Eng (long time stunt performer and coordinator) and EJ Foerster, and written by Patrick Hasburgh (writer and creator of TV series "Hardcastle and McCormick" and "21 Jump Street").

Marge (Jess Gabor, "Shameless") and her mother (Judy Greer) are both having a hard time. Mom is a California realtor who seems to go through men faster than she sells houses, and Jess is a self-described "fat and slow" bench-warmer on her soccer team, while also battling bulimia and her unpopularity with classmates. It's at about this time when the "getting worse" part happens for Marge, and soon she's crossing the border in search of her dad, who left home when she was two years old.

Jackson (Steve Zahn) is a former soccer star-turned alcoholic-surfer, and is no more prepared to be a father now than when Marge was born. It's an awkward reunion since neither father nor daughter know the other, but they agree to spend a month getting familiar. It's fun to watch these two bring out the best in each other. Dad promises to stop drinking and treat his girlfriend (Roselyn Sanchez, "Without a Trace") better, and Marge cleans up her diet and magically improves her soccer skills while subbing for the local team her dad is coaching.

Mr. Zahn has been a familiar face and dependable performer since the early 1990's, and was recently seen in season one of "The White Lotus." In this role, he gets to flash some of his trademark goofiness, while also showing some depth as a man-child trying to get his act together. Zahn's connection with Ms. Gabor is what makes the film click. While not familiar with her previous work, I was impressed with Gabor's range her and realistic portrayal of a teenager in pain - slumped shoulders and plate of tacos, etc. Ms. Greer has a limited role here, and supporting work comes from Jorge A Jimenez, Valentina Buzzurro, and Nico Bracewell. It's not really a comedy, although there are some slightly comical moments, and the first two acts are well done, though the poor sound mix and muddled final act don't end things on a high note. It may seem formulaic at times, but noticing new talent is always a welcome development.

In theaters and VOD beginning April 21, 2023.

Your daughters will love you for sharing your time with them. Steve Zahn steals this movie in this beautiful and touching coming of age story featuring a breakout role for newcomer, Jess Gabor. This is a coming of age story of a teenager in search of her lost Dad. She finds him lost in life as well on a beach in Mexico. For parents and children alike, don't forget the kleenex because your eyes will be tearing as they form a new relationship between themselves. Movies like Gringa are few and far between these days. With beautiful performances by Zahn and Gabor, you will find yourself captivated by the stunning cinema photography of the Mexican shoreline. Don't forget the popcorn because Gringa is pure entertainment.