The Good Boss (2021)

Original title: El buen patrón

The Good Boss is a Spanish film directed by Fernando León de Aranoa. The movie tells the story of a man who is trying to resolve any problems from his workers in enough time before a big company event. The Good Boss is a low-key comedy with gently humorous moments that come from the situations rather than laugh out loud moments relying on jokes. The movie stars Javier Bardem as the boss who is trying to keep everything together. The rest of the cast put in strong performances as well, but Bardem is the standout.

Fernando León de Aranoa takes a different approach to the material than most comedies and it works well. For anyone who has survived a workplace, The Good Boss will feel familiar in some way. The characters are well-drawn, and the dialogue is sharp. The movie has a good message about trying to be a good boss, but it’s also clear that not everyone is cut out for the job. The Good Boss is an enjoyable comedy that should please most viewers.

(In cinemas in Australia – check your movie guide for your local show times.)