Chance (2009)
★★★ — Chance (2009)
Chance was the debut feature from Panamanian director Abner Benaim, who would later become better known internationally with the documentary Looking for Lazarus (2012) and the comedy Invasion (2014), a film that became something of a cultural landmark in Panama. Shot as a co-production between Panama's Rio Negro and Mexico's Apertura Films on a modest budget of around $1.5 million, it arrived at a moment when Panamanian cinema was only beginning to develop a recognisable commercial identity, with very few locally produced narrative features reaching domestic audiences at all. The film draws on a recognisable Latin American tradition of class-reversal comedy, with the servant-takes-over-the-house premise carrying echoes of theatre farce as much as cinema.
A-Z World Movie Tour Panama Chance, the 2021 Panamanian comedy, is a lightweight but occasionally charming romp that leans heavily on its lead’s charisma and a handful of genuinely funny moments. It follows a two maids who are fed up of being mistreated and underpaid (and even not paid at all) by a seemingly rich Panamanian family. When they've decided enough is enough they hold the family hostage and attempt to extort them for money. The premise isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s executed with enough energy and local flavour to keep things moving. The humour lands in fits and starts, some jokes are broad, even predictable, but others are rooted in social quirks in a way that feels authentic and refreshing. The banter between the two leads has a natural, lived-in rhythm, and there are a few revelations that deliver solid shocks laughs. It’s clear the filmmakers understand comedy as rhythm and timing, not just punchlines. It’s not a film that aims high (no deep themes, no narrative surprises) and it shows. The plot meanders, the stakes never feel truly urgent, and the third act collapses into familiar, safe resolutions. But as a piece of homegrown entertainment, it has charm. It’s not going to change Latin American cinema, but it’s a watchable, modestly funny comedy. Worth a watch if you’re in the mood for something easygoing. Just don’t expect brilliance, just a few laughs. If this was made in America you know it'd star Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler.
Rating: ★★★ | Year: 2009 | Watched: 2025-08-10
Where to watch (UK)
Physical: Amazon UK
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