Americano

Story Line: Before beginning his business career, American college graduate Chris (Jackson) goes to Pamplona, Spain, for the annual bull run. After meeting beautiful Adela (Varela) and an enigmatic bar owner (Dennis Hopper), Chris begins to rethink his orderly life.

Bottom Line: First-time director Noland uses the energy of the chaotic Pamplona bull run to propel the first half of this ambitious coming-of-age saga, and, happily, the momentum carries the story through to the end. It's quite remarkable how the filmmakers kept the actors in the frame during the massive, uninhibited Pamplona festival, and the eye-level race against the charging bovines is worth a look in its own right. Jackson is an appealing, likeable lead with a wary eye and a beard that makes him look like he could be Kenneth Branagh's son. Chile-born Varela is lovely and convincing as a Spanish actress in love with the American. Co-producer Ruthanna Hopper, who plays a neurotic Yank overcome by the events, convinced daddy Dennis to come to Spain and do his usual intimidating nutcase persona, and in this case, his few scenes go a long way.