¡CASA BONITA MI AMOR!
A film by Arthur Bradford
2024, 88 minutes
2024, 88 minutes
No. 456
Documentary
Documentary
Description
It was known far and wide as the Disneyland of Mexican restaurants – a labyrinth-like Denver wonderland famous for its 30-foot waterfall and attendant cliff divers, throwback Western theme, massive gorilla mascot, and food that was... not so good. But when COVID-19 forces the legendary Casa Bonita restaurant into bankruptcy, South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone see the opportunity to bring a childhood dream to life, buying the beleaguered landmark with an eye on returning it to its early 1970s glory.
Working with famed restaurateur Dana “Loca” Rodriguez to update the menu, and armed with over $8 million for renovations, the pair soon realize that this dream might just be beyond their grasp as they face a deteriorating structure, rapidly aging fixtures, and a spiraling budget. With a projected summer 2023 opening date and the eyes of a nation upon them, Parker and Stone strive to see their vision through in this hilarious ode to the power of creativity and love of community.
Working with famed restaurateur Dana “Loca” Rodriguez to update the menu, and armed with over $8 million for renovations, the pair soon realize that this dream might just be beyond their grasp as they face a deteriorating structure, rapidly aging fixtures, and a spiraling budget. With a projected summer 2023 opening date and the eyes of a nation upon them, Parker and Stone strive to see their vision through in this hilarious ode to the power of creativity and love of community.
Festivals
Official Selection, Tribeca Film Festival
Official Selection, Telluride Film Festival
Official Selection, Miami Film Festival
Official Selection, Telluride Film Festival
Official Selection, Miami Film Festival
Reviews
"A hilarious behind-the-scenes account of that ill-advised investment, MTV Documentary Films' unconventional — and unexpectedly inspiring — makeover doc follows along as the pair sink millions into rescuing the crumbling landmark out of bankruptcy." - Variety
