Review of ‘Maker of Tears’, the new film by Alessandro Genovesi released on Netflix

By Noé R. Rivas – 9 hours ago

The film industry has taken a new turn with the arrival of ‘Maker of Tears’ to the Netflix platform. Directed by Alessandro Genovesi and based on the novel of the same name by the Italian writer Erin Doom, this production joins the growing trend of adapting successful youth literary phenomena to the big screen. A movement that, although it can be lucrative, does not always manage to successfully translate the essence of the original works.

The plot of ‘Maker of Tears’ focuses on Nica, a young orphan played by Caterina Ferioli in her acting debut. Raised in the sinister orphanage known as “The Grave,” Nica has grown up hearing legends about a mysterious “Maker of Tears,” a craftsman responsible for forging the fears and anxieties that haunt the human heart. When she turns seventeen, Nica has the opportunity to leave that oppressive environment by being adopted by a loving couple.

However, her new life will not be as idyllic as she expected, as she is forced to live with Rigel, a disturbing young man played by rapper Simone Baldasseroni (artistically known as Biondo). Despite sharing a stormy past in the orphanage, Nica and Rigel maintain a tense and distant relationship, challenging the possibility of harmonious coexistence. But as the legend of the “Maker of Tears” seeps into their lives, they will both find themselves caught up in a whirlwind of emotions and revelations that will test their bond.

In its attempt to recreate the appeal of the source material, ‘Fabricante de Lágrimas’ delves into a dark and atmospheric visual style, clearly inspired by successful youth gothic productions such as ‘Twilight’. The sequences set in the gloomy orphanage, although effective in visual terms, lack the depth necessary to convey the anguish and suffering that supposedly marked the protagonists’ childhood.

On an acting level, Caterina Ferioli and Simone Baldasseroni offer solid performances, but they are often overshadowed by a script full of exaggerated dialogue and clichés typical of the genre. Phrases like “Her poisonous charm was infesting” or “We are eternal and inseparable. “He star, I sky” may be attractive to die-hard fans, but they are unlikely to captivate a broader audience.

One of the most disconcerting aspects of ‘Maker of Tears’ is its setting. Despite being set in an unnamed American town, the film stars entirely Italian actors speaking in their native language. This decision, although bold, creates an inevitable culture shock that can be disconcerting for the viewer.

Additionally, the plot is hampered by erratic and fluid narration. Several secondary plot threads are left unresolved satisfactorily, while the legend of the “Maker of Tears” itself seems to lack a clear and consistent definition throughout the film.

However, ‘Maker of Tears’ manages to shine in some technical aspects. The sets and original music are worthy of praise, creating an attractive atmosphere that, unfortunately, fails to compensate for the narrative and acting deficiencies.

In summary, ‘Maker of Tears’ is a film adaptation that, while attempting to capture the essence of Erin Doom’s novel, is hampered by a weak script, uneven acting, and a culturally confusing setting. While the book’s most devoted fans might enjoy certain familiar elements, general audiences might find it difficult to connect emotionally with this stormy love story.

It is undeniable that Genovesi and his creative team have made an admirable effort to bring such a popular literary phenomenon to the screen. However, the transition from paper to film is not always easy, and in this case, ‘Maker of Tears’ falls somewhere between honoring his literary roots and offering a truly captivating cinematic experience.