Live-InMaid ~ (2004, Argentina) ~ DVD

This Argentinian film is an intimate little portrait of two women and the dynamics of their changing relationship. It’s a time of economic crisis in Buenos Aires and Beba (Norma Aleandro) is struggling to make ends meet as a divorcee living in a too big apartment with her live-in maid whom she is unable to pay any longer, without hocking more of her jewelry and possessions. Dora (Norma Argentina) who has been a loyal employee (and companion) for thirty years watches as her mistress vainly attempts to keep up appearances.

When Dora finally quits, although she begins to adapt better than her Beba. it’s clear that the severed relationship has left a void in both their lives. As much as she’s struggled to keep her ‘place’ in society, the loss of Dora will be a devastating blow, the loss of her anchor. Dora has become an indispensable part of Beba’s family – in fact, she’s the only family she really has left. There’s a poignant interlude in the film where Beba attempts to call her daughter who lives in Spain, but can’t reach her and leaves a message. Later her daughter calls back and talks to Dora. You get the feeling that it’s Dora whom the daughter really relates to. That Dora is the go-between her and her mother. Much in the way that Dora is the go-between for Beba in all her relationships. When Dora relates the daughters call to Beba, one can see the depth of Beba’s dependency on Dora.

Norma Aleandro plays Beba in a low-key, melodramatic way, all sighs and consternation, like an actress playing someone acting her part in life. Norma Argentina’s Dora is the stone faced stoic who accepts her lot with resignation and determination. Both play off each other wonderfully.

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