Chasing Wonders is beautiful almost by default. The film was shot in Europe and Australia’s wine making regions. The story is about a family of vintners who left Spain. The youngest member of the family Savino has decided to return to Spain learn more about his family’s past. It is unfortunate the coming of age story does not live up to the visual beauty.
This is not to say the film is bad. In fact, it is a heartwarming tale about family and forgiveness. For all its exquisite shots, Chasing Wonders manages to remain understated. The plot screams melodrama and cheese, but it avoids these pitfalls – for the most part. The characters end up taking center stage. The film wisely never strives to be over the top.
Chasing Wonders includes an eclectic cast of characters. There are the loving grandparents, the party animal uncle, and Savino’s demure mother. Balancing everyone out is the stern father who is tormented by a past tragedy. This is the primary source of the tension. It is not particularly original, but it always remains an enjoyable watch.
The film loses its way when it deviates from the coming of age formula. One of the things that makes Chasing Wonders work so well is how smoothly the script flows. During the second act, things get noticeably bumpy. The point of view changes during this period and the story slows down. Thankfully, it does not negatively impact the movie as a whole.
The majority of the time, Chasing Wonders is a powerful watch. The familiarity of moving into adulthood is a theme that most audiences will enjoy. The lessons told are timeless and relatable and are especially poignant when told in an intimate atmosphere. Fans of the genre will definitely enjoy the film.
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