Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe: A Labor of Love

Finding a way to see Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe was like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Queer cinema often struggles to find its way to mainstream audiences, and sadly, this poignant coming-of-age story was no exception.

Despite the fervent desire of everyone involved in the making of the film to see it grace the silver screen, its limited release hindered its accessibility to many, including some members of our team. As a publication whose team spans several cities and countries, we lamented the difficulty in accessing a film that speaks volumes to the LGBTQ+ community. Indie films carry incredible stories that deserve as much recognition and hype as commercial blockbusters.

The lack of distribution for independent films is not only a matter of inconvenience but also a glaring symptom of a larger issue: the underrepresentation of marginalized voices in cinema. Queer Latinx individuals, in particular, face a scarcity of on-screen representation that is honestly alarming.

And we’re not exaggerating, it’s a more serious issue than y’all think. Just ask yourselves, how many queer Latinx films can y’all name off the top of your head? If you’re a cinephile or have ventured into the depths of the internet, you could perhaps name one or two, but the answer, for many, is sadly none. 

The dearth of diverse narratives deprives audiences of the opportunity to see themselves reflected on screen, perpetuating a cycle of erasure and invisibility. This glaring lack of representation is not merely a matter of statistics—it’s a profound reflection of the industry’s failure to amplify voices that deserve to be heard.

But let’s set aside this sobering reality for a moment—a topic we take with utmost seriousness—and focus instead on the film at hand and its significance in the landscape of queer cinema. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe offers a moving exploration of identity, friendship, and love, transcending the boundaries of race and sexuality.

While the lack of representation may weigh heavily on our hearts, this film serves as a beacon of hope—a reminder that stories like these are not only worthy of being told but also deserving of our attention and support. So let’s explore all the secrets of this cinematic gem, celebrating its importance and the conversations it ignites about the need for greater inclusivity and diversity in storytelling.

Discovering the Secrets of the Universe

Based on the acclaimed novel by Benjamin Alire Sáenz and brought to life on the big screen by screenwriter and director Aitch Alberto, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe delicately traces the evolving friendship between two teenage boys—Aristotle “Ari” Mendoza (Max Pelayo) and Dante Quintana (Reese Gonzales). Set against the backdrop of El Paso, Texas, in the summer of 1987, the film captures the essence of adolescence with stunning cinematography and heartwarming storytelling.

As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to Ari, a solitary soul who finds solace in his own thoughts. Alienated from his peers and burdened by family secrets, Ari navigates the complexities of adolescence with a heavy heart. However, his world is irrevocably changed when he meets Dante at the local pool, a vibrant and compassionate young man who offers to teach him how to swim. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, Ari and Dante forge a deep friendship rooted in mutual respect and understanding. 

Bonding over their classically inspired names and swimming lessons, Ari and Dante’s connection serves as a catalyst for both their personal growth and self-discovery. But this friendship has a more noticeable impact on Ari, who finally allows himself to break free from the confines of his own mind and embrace the world around him. 

Through Dante’s unwavering support and infectious optimism, Ari learns to open himself up to new experiences and emotions, challenging him to confront his inner demons. In fact, the heart of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe beats in rhythm with the evolving bond between Ari and Dante, and that is what makes this film so special. 

As Ari and Dante’s bond strengthens, we witness the complexities of friendship, love, and self-discovery. As they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, they confront the shadows of doubt and insecurity that lurk beneath the surface. Their bond serves as a lifeline in the midst of that storm of emotions, offering comfort and strength in moments of uncertainty and tragedy.

So, from shared moments of stargazing in the desert where Dante proclaims his dream of one day discovering all the secrets of the universe, to the intimate bonds formed with each other’s families, their connection becomes unbreakable.

However, like all human relationships, theirs is not without its trials. As the summer draws to a close, Ari and Dante face the harsh realities of life, including Dante’s impending move to Chicago and a devastating car accident that leaves Ari hospitalized.

During their time apart, both boys undergo significant personal growth, albeit in different ways. While we witness Ari’s struggles firsthand, Dante’s inner turmoil is revealed through a series of confessional letters to his friend. In these letters, Dante grapples with questions of identity and sexuality, ultimately confiding in Ari about his feelings toward men.

Their reunion a year later forces them to confront their own truths and insecurities, Ari grapples with internalized homophobia while Dante dares to openly explore his burgeoning sexuality. But sooner rather than later, Ari and Dante’s relationship takes a turn that, while painful for a moment, ends up deepening their connection and ultimately turning it into something more profound and meaningful.

The film’s ability to capture the essence of Ari and Dante’s evolving relationship with depth and authenticity is perhaps its greatest strength. The portrayal of the slow-burning romance between these boys is both tender and innocent, capturing the complexities of young love with lots of sensitivity and grace, and anchoring the narrative in a respectful exploration of love and identity.

Now, it must be said, the adaptation of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe from page to screen inevitably brings about changes, but in this instance, these alterations prove to be both effective and enriching. While some deviations from the original story may initially give pause to fans of the book, they ultimately serve to enhance the cinematic experience.

It’s crucial to remember that books and films are different storytelling mediums, each with its own strengths and limitations. In this case, Alberto demonstrates a deep understanding of her craft, ensuring that the essence of the story remains intact while embracing the unique qualities of visual storytelling.

One of the biggest challenges she faced in making this film was translating Ari’s internal monologues into cinematic language. In the book, Ari’s thoughts and emotions dominate the narrative, providing readers with unparalleled insight into his psyche. However, in the film, conveying these inner workings without resorting to a tedious exposition of auditory devices presents a formidable task. 

And the film tackles this challenge with finesse. While some adaptations may falter in capturing the nuances of the source material, Alberto’s deft direction ensures that Ari’s inner turmoil is palpable even on screen. Through judicious use of voice-over and relying on Pelayo’s exceptional acting prowess, the audience is invited into Ari’s world, navigating the labyrinth of his thoughts and emotions.

And speaking of Pelayo’s acting chops. Central to the film’s success are his and Gonzales’ performances, who not only deliver but whose chemistry crackles with authenticity. Pelayo’s portrayal of Ari resonates with quiet intensity, while Gonzales infuses Dante with warmth and exuberance, tapping into his effervescent natural charm. Without their undeniable rapport, the film would lose much of its emotional resonance.

Additionally, the presence of veteran actors such as Eugenio Derbéz, Eva Longoria, Kevin Alejandro, Verónica Falcón, and Marlene Forte lends further depth and gravitas to the film. Their guidance and support not only bolsters Pelayo and Gonzales’ performances but also serves to elevate the overall quality of the production. Together, they create a cinematic tapestry that resonates with authenticity and heart, capturing the essence of Sáenz’s beloved novel in all its beauty and complexity.

We don’t need a telescope to see that Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a labor of pure love, crafted with meticulous care and dedication. From its compelling storyline to the poignant messages it conveys, every aspect of the film resonates with genuine affection. It’s evident that all involved, from the cast to the crew, poured their hearts and souls into bringing this story to life. Their collective passion infuses every frame with a palpable sense of warmth and authenticity, making ‘Ari and Dante’ not just a film, but a heartfelt ode to love, community, and the transformative power of art. 

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe transcends its status as a mere film; it is a testament to the power of representation and storytelling. For those within the queer and Latinx communities, it serves as a mirror that reflects their struggles, hopes, and triumphs. In a world where visibility is often elusive, this film affirms the inherent worth and validity of diverse experiences.

It is up to us, as consumers and advocates, to demand greater accessibility and representation in the films we consume. By supporting diverse storytellers and narratives, we can create a more inclusive cinematic landscape for generations to come.

So as the credits roll and the echoes of Ari and Dante’s journey linger, we are reminded of the film’s initial message: “To all of us who’ve had to learn to play by different rules.” A powerful line that serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength that resides within each of us.

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Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is available on demand through most major platforms worldwide. Please check your local listings for more information on how to access the film. Follow us on X and Instagram for all queer stuff!

Featured Image: Image Courtesy of BLUE FOX ENTERTAINMENT