The new Netflix comedy that fails to portray cell phone addiction.

The new Netflix comedy, "I Can't Live Without You," starring Adrián Suar and Paz Vega, presents itself as an attempt to explore contemporary addiction to mobile devices. With a runtime of just over 90 minutes, the film directed by Santiago Requejo is set against a backdrop where dependence on cell phones has become a relevant topic in everyday life. However, despite its promising premise, the execution of the story leaves much to be desired. The central character, Carlos, played by Suar, begins his day with the usual ritual of checking his phone upon waking and before sleeping. This routine, which may resonate with many viewers, becomes the axis around which his life revolves. As the narrative progresses, it becomes evident that his obsession with his mobile phone not only affects his professional life—where he desperately seeks his boss Alejandro's approval—but also deteriorates his family and personal life, with his wife Adela and children suffering the consequences of his addiction. One of the film's weak points is the treatment of secondary characters. Although Adela is presented as the wife suffering from her husband's addiction, her presence is intermittent and often relegated to the background, minimizing her impact on the plot. This is even more noticeable with the couple's children, who, after being sent abroad to study, appear very little and lack a voice of their own in the story. This lack of development in the secondary characters makes them feel like mere accessories rather than individuals with their own stories and problems. The use of the mobile phone, while the central theme, becomes an almost omnipresent character. The film strives to portray Carlos's dependence on his mobile device, but the approach feels superficial and unconvincing. The scenes that attempt to illustrate this need, such as his participation in a marathon to retrieve a stolen phone, fall into monotony and lack the comedic spark one would expect from a comedy. One of the most notable moments, which is even shown in the trailer, is the scene at Adela's sister's wedding. Carlos, distracted by his addiction, ignores the ceremony to take a call, culminating in an absurd moment where his frustrated wife throws his phone into the lake. This sequence, instead of being funny or touching, ends up being ridiculous and unbelievable, reflecting a recurring problem in the script: the lack of coherence and emotional depth. The film introduces therapy for mobile addicts as a resource for Carlos to recognize his problem and seek solutions. However, this part of the narrative feels like a cliché from 90s comedies, with stereotypical characters that contribute nothing substantial to the story. The idea that sharing his story in a support group will magically cure him of his addiction feels simplistic and unrealistic. As the plot unfolds, the film follows a predictable path, detracting from the tension and excitement of the story. The interactions between Carlos and his family are superficial, and the attempts at reconciliation and change feel forced and inauthentic. In this sense, the lack of flashbacks illustrating the relationship between Carlos and Adela leaves a void in the narrative that could have added depth and emotional resonance. Although Suar has demonstrated his talent in previous productions, such as "Los protectores," where his performance feels genuine and convincing, in "I Can't Live Without You," his character lacks the complexity and authenticity one would expect from an actor of his caliber. The film, instead of being a vehicle to showcase his ability, becomes a series of clichés that get lost in superficiality. Moreover, Paz Vega's potential as an actress is squandered in a role that does not allow her to shine. Her character, while central to Carlos's life, does not have the opportunity to develop fully and becomes a resigned figure in the face of her husband's addiction. This dynamic could have been explored in a richer and deeper way but remains sidelined. In summary, "I Can't Live Without You" presents itself as a comedy that addresses a current issue, but its superficial approach and lack of character development render it a weak and unfunny film. Despite the talent of its leads, the movie fails to capture the essence of mobile phone addiction in a way that resonates with the audience. In a world where digital connection is omnipresent, Carlos's story and his struggle could have been a profound and relevant reflection, but instead, it remains a failed attempt at humor and emotion.