It scored a spectacular 96% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Released in cinemas in this part of the world just six months ago, Official Competition immediately stood out as one of the very best comedies from the last few years. Unfortunately, after its initial cinematic release in August 2022, it failed to get the attention it deserved, making less than $5 million at the global box office.
Starring Penélope Cruz, Antonio Banderas and Oscar Martínez, it tells the story of a billionaire businessman (José Luis Gómez) in search of fame who decides to make a unique and groundbreaking film.
To achieve his goal, he hires the best of the best, consisting of famous filmmaker Lola Cuevas (Cruz) and two well-known actors with talents only outmatched by their egos: Hollywood star Félix Rivero (Banderas) and ageing theatre thespian Iván Torres (Martinez).
They’re both legends, but they also absolutely hate each other. Through a series of increasingly hilarious tests set by their director, Félix and Iván are forced to confront not only each other, but themselves!
Upon release, Official Competition scored an outstanding 96% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics absolutely adoring the sharp, biting comedy:
The Telegraph – “Smart comedy is already a rarity; smart comedy that looks this good is a once-in-a-blue-moon event.”
Rolling Stone – “The movie would hit every bullseye it needed to even without her near-surgical deconstruction of the narcissistic monsters who scream ‘action’ and ‘cut’. With Cruz’s take on artistic ‘genius’, however, this satire officially becomes a work of actual genius.”
Little White Lies – “Even though the film is packed with belly laughs, it is never spiteful or denigratory, and always appears thankful for the fact that pampered artists can produce miracles if they’re given the time and resources to do so.”
Official Competition (or Competencia Oficial, if you’re searching for it in its original title) is available to watch on Netflix right now in Ireland and the UK.
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