How to Deal with a Heartbreak (2023)
Story overview
This 2023 comedy film explores the humorous side of navigating heartbreak and moving forward after a relationship ends. The story follows characters dealing with emotional challenges through comedic situations and lighthearted moments. It focuses on themes of resilience, friendship, and finding laughter during difficult times.
Parent Guide
A lighthearted comedy about emotional recovery suitable for older children with parental guidance.
Content breakdown
No physical violence or dangerous situations depicted.
No frightening or disturbing content.
May include mild comedic language appropriate for the genre.
No sexual content or nudity.
No depiction of substance use.
Deals with emotional themes of heartbreak and recovery in a comedic context.
Parent tips
This comedy about heartbreak is generally appropriate for older children and teens, but parents should be aware it deals with emotional themes. The film uses humor to address relationship endings, which might require some context for younger viewers. Consider watching together to discuss how the characters handle their emotions in healthy ways.
Parent chat guide
Parent follow-up questions
- What was your favorite funny part in the movie?
- How did the characters help each other feel better?
- What makes you feel better when you're sad?
- What did the characters learn about friendship in the movie?
- How did humor help the characters deal with their feelings?
- What are some good ways to help a friend who's feeling sad?
- How did the characters show resilience after their disappointment?
- What healthy coping strategies did you notice in the film?
- Why is it important to talk about feelings even when things are funny?
- How does the film balance humor with emotional authenticity?
- What insights did the movie offer about personal growth after setbacks?
- How might the characters' approaches to heartbreak apply to other life challenges?
🎭 Story Kernel
The film explores the messy, non-linear trajectory of grief following the dissolution of a long-term relationship. At its core, it is an examination of identity reconstruction in the digital age. Maria Fé’s journey from a devastated ex-girlfriend to a successful blogger highlights the cathartic power of vulnerability and the importance of female friendship as a primary support system. Rather than focusing on finding a new romantic partner as a 'cure,' the narrative emphasizes the necessity of processing pain, reclaiming one's creative voice, and establishing independence. It critiques the societal pressure on women to be coupled, suggesting that being 'soltera' is not a waiting room for marriage, but a valid and enriching state of being. The story effectively deconstructs the 'happily ever after' trope by defining success through personal growth and professional fulfillment.
🎬 Visual Aesthetics
The visual style utilizes a vibrant, contemporary palette that reflects the urban energy of Lima, Peru. The cinematography often employs close-ups to capture Maria Fé’s internal emotional fluctuations, creating an intimate connection with the viewer. A notable visual motif is the integration of digital elements—text bubbles and blog interfaces—directly onto the screen, which serves to bridge the gap between her private thoughts and her public persona. The lighting shifts from muted, somber tones during her initial depression to brighter, more saturated hues as she gains confidence. The production design of her apartment serves as a physical manifestation of her mental state, transitioning from a cluttered space of mourning to an organized environment of creativity. This visual progression subtly reinforces the theme of rebuilding one's life from the wreckage of a breakup.
🔍 Details & Easter Eggs
💡 Behind the Scenes
The film is based on the popular semi-autobiographical blog and book 'Soltera Codiciada' by María José Osorio, who also wrote the screenplay. Directed by Joanna Lombardi and Bruno Ascenzo, it became a significant box office success in Peru before being acquired by Netflix as its first Peruvian original film. This acquisition marked a milestone for Peruvian cinema, bringing local storytelling to a global audience. The lead actress, Gisselle Busquets, received praise for her comedic timing and relatability, helping the film transcend cultural barriers by tapping into the universal experience of modern heartbreak and digital-era dating.
Where to watch
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- Netflix
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