“Life doesn’t come with instructions.”
synopsis
Valentín lives a carefree life in Acapulco, avoiding responsibility and romantic commitments whenever possible. His world changes overnight when a former fling unexpectedly leaves a baby girl on his doorstep and disappears. Forced to raise the child on his own, Valentín moves to Los Angeles and builds a new life as a stuntman while forming a deep bond with his daughter. Years later, when the child’s biological mother returns, Valentín must confront difficult questions about love, parenthood, and what truly makes a family.
pairs well with ...
mini-review
Part comedy, part heartfelt drama, Instructions Not Included balances humor with surprisingly emotional storytelling. Eugenio Derbez directs and stars, bringing charm and warmth to a story that begins as a lighthearted fish-out-of-water tale but gradually becomes a touching exploration of fatherhood. The film’s sentimentality may feel a bit manipulative at times, but its emotional sincerity and engaging performances make it an easy crowd-pleaser.
A relaxed evening viewing when you’re in the mood for something funny, sentimental, and unexpectedly moving.
Absurdist's Corner
Valentín goes from commitment-phobic bachelor to devoted single father almost overnight—proof that sometimes life’s biggest responsibilities arrive without warning.
fun facts
The film became the highest-grossing Spanish-language film in the United States at the time of its release.
Director and star Eugenio Derbez is one of Mexico’s most successful comedians.
Much of the film’s emotional impact comes from the chemistry between Derbez and the young actress playing his daughter.