Roma

           Written and directed by Alfonso Cuaron, this semi autobiographical drama is based on his childhood in Mexico City. It is set in the early 1970's and is the story of a live-in housekeeper and her upper class family.

             The film stars Yalitza Aparicio as Cleo, the housekeeper that works for Sofia, her husband Antonio, a doctor, and their four children and their grandmother. Ms. Aparicio is a natural and gives a wonderful performance. The film explores class struggle and family. It also asks the question,  can the bond between employer and employee become family or remained a blurred grey area?

              The story begins innocently with daily life in the home but soon cracks appear beneath the surface and circumstances change for Cleo and the family. There is a sadness that sets in and hovers over the film like a dark cloud but the bond of love is strong throughout.

              Mr. Cuaron's direction is perfection. Many scenes are like individual poems that connect to the whole film. He chooses to shoot the film in stark black & white, which somehow conveys a more intimate portrait of  Cleo's microcosmic life. The cinematography is gorgeous. 

                This is a Netflix film that is streaming on the service but also in limited theatrical run. It is best seen on the big screen but even at home, it can still convey a powerful viewing experience.