Un lío de millones

Un Lío de Millones, which translates to 'A Mess of Millions,' is a heartwarming and entertaining Spanish comedy-drama that revolves around a couple struggling to come to terms with their children's drifting away from them. Javier Fesser's 2017 film takes a unique approach to tackle this universal issue, exploring the lengths one couple will go to reconnect with their estranged children. Alberto García is a kind-hearted, retired school teacher living a simple life with his wife, Luciana Sastre, in a quaint village situated in the Sierra de Madrid mountains. Their children, Mar, Alvar, and Olvido, have all moved out of the house and started their own lives, pursuing higher education and careers. However, Alberto and Luciana sense that they have been largely forgotten by their grown-up kids, struggling to be involved in their lives. Their dilemma turns into a catalyst for a series of hilarious and poignant events. To get their children's attention and win them back, Alberto and Luciana concoct a plan to pretend they've won a massive lottery jackpot. They purchase a lottery ticket together, only to be told the news that they've indeed struck gold, but the amount is an astonishing €99 million. As word spreads about the multimillionaire couple from their village, Alberto and Luciana capitalize on their newfound wealth status to lure their children home. The village suddenly becomes a melting pot of nouveau riche aspirations, with the couple using their supposed riches to treat their friends, family, and even their neighbors like royalty. Alberto starts taking expensive trips to elaborate the impression of his newfound wealth and buys several upscale cars to give off an air of opulence, including a gleaming BMW. Meanwhile, Luciana uses the pretence of her new wealth as an opportunity to revamp their home, transforming it into a lavish mansion. Their antics often lead to comedic misunderstandings, not only with their family but also with the numerous opportunistic individuals interested in connecting with them. Their plan to recapture their estranged children's love backfires spectacularly when Mar and Alvar are brought home to see the changes in their childhood home. They initially feel uneasy and out of place in their 'swanky' environment and gradually become disillusioned by their parents' obvious deception. Olvido, the most responsible of the siblings, chooses to stay away, which adds to the hurt and frustration felt by Alberto and Luciana. Throughout their ordeal, the camera pans on Alberto's unblemished smile and sparkling eyes – each a shield against the worries that circle the atmosphere he cherishes in a family that desperately needs redemption. Each failure experienced strengthens his resolve; Alberto recognizes the error in his approach but refuses to let go of his vision to rebuild a life filled with the people he desperately misses. In one symbolic scene, the village villagers celebrate Alberto's supposed lottery win. Their enthusiasm makes the night that much more unforgettable. Alberto attempts to talk to his child Alvar about this, only to inadvertently remind him of how far he has traveled. But, unbeknownst to the unsuspecting family at the centre, this series of deceit gives life some grand opportunities.