Las Pelotas

A junior soccer tournament in the Argentinian countryside. The proud players' fathers, Chato and Lopez, are nervous. Scouts from the big clubs in Buenos Aires have traveled to see the boys play. Ideally, they'll get a contract with a club in the capital, and from there, many have already made it to Europe and big money. But shortly after the game, the scout makes it clear: neither boy is good enough. One has the brain, the other has the legs—that mix, that would be something! Chato and Lopez are dejected. But Lopez has an idea. After all, talent is genetic, and his mother-in-law does the same with her cows. He suggests a cross between Chato and his wife, and vice versa. After initial skepticism and thanks to their open-minded wives, the ceremony takes place under the close observation of their mothers-in-law. And indeed, nine months later, the news: It's a boy!

Directed by Chris Niemeyer, Las Pelotas leans on a strong ensemble — Jorge Román, Mónica Lairana, Lorena Verga — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 2009.