‘Lucca's World’ (2025) Netflix Movie Review - A Mother’s Unyielding Quest

"Lucca's World" is a deeply personal, emotionally resonant drama that captures the raw determination of a mother fighting for her child's future. Directed by Mariana Chenillo and based on Bárbara Anderson's autobiographical book, the film does not rely on exaggerated melodrama to tell its story. Instead, it offers an intimate, grounded portrayal of a family's relentless pursuit of hope, love, and medical possibilities.

At the heart of the movie is Bárbara Mori’s powerful performance as Bárbara, a mother whose unwavering resolve is both admirable and heartbreaking. Her portrayal is strikingly real—there are no over-the-top outbursts or forced sentimental moments, just the quiet yet forceful determination of a woman who refuses to accept the limitations placed on her son. Juan Pablo Medina plays Andrés, the father, who provides a counterbalance to Bárbara’s desperation with a mix of rationality and suppressed fear. Their dynamic feels natural, portraying the strain that a life-altering condition can place on a marriage without reducing it to clichés.

The film’s journey takes the audience across continents, from the familiar comforts of home to the unfamiliar chaos of India, where Bárbara seeks an experimental stem cell treatment for Lucca. This shift in location is not just a backdrop—it plays a crucial role in shaping the story. The bustling streets, the overwhelming sounds, and the cultural differences all serve to heighten the emotional stakes. It’s a story about adaptation, confronting the unknown, and the universal language of parental love that transcends borders.

One of the film’s strongest elements is its refusal to sugarcoat the reality of raising a child with cerebral palsy. It does not present Bárbara as a saintly figure, nor does it portray Lucca’s condition as a mere obstacle that love alone can overcome. Instead, it highlights the daily battles—medical bureaucracy, financial strain, moments of self-doubt, and the quiet triumphs that feel monumental when set against a backdrop of constant struggle. The screenplay, co-written by Chenillo and Javier Peñalosa, is skillfully balanced, ensuring the film never veers too far into sentimentality or despair.

The pacing is deliberate, giving each moment the space it needs to resonate. Scenes of Bárbara and Lucca are given time to breathe, making even the smallest interactions feel significant. The film doesn’t rush to its emotional payoffs but instead allows them to unfold naturally, making them all the more impactful.

That said, the film is not without its flaws. Some plot developments feel predictable, especially if one is familiar with films centered around medical journeys. While Bárbara’s character is thoroughly developed, some of the supporting roles—especially those encountered in India—could have been fleshed out more. A deeper dive into their motivations and backgrounds would have enriched the story and given the narrative additional layers.

Visually, "Lucca's World" is beautifully shot. The cinematography captures both the intimacy of personal moments and the vast, sometimes overwhelming scale of the world Bárbara finds herself navigating. The contrast between the family's home and the unfamiliar streets of India is stark yet never exaggerated, emphasizing the emotional and physical distance they must overcome. The score is subtle, enhancing the film’s emotional beats without feeling manipulative or overly dramatic.

In the end, "Lucca's World" is not just a story about medical hope—it’s about the resilience of a mother who refuses to give up, no matter how insurmountable the odds may seem. It is a deeply moving film that never feels forced or overly polished, instead embracing the imperfections and uncertainties that make the story feel so real. While it has its minor shortcomings, its heart is in the right place, making it a compelling watch for anyone drawn to stories of perseverance, love, and the extraordinary strength found in ordinary people.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times