In the recent landscape of film and television, time travel has often been a tool for characters to manipulate their pasts, striving to correct mistakes or prevent personal tragedies—think of iconic works like The Flash or Avengers: Endgame. However, Netflix’s Our Times takes a refreshing detour from this well-trodden path. Instead of sending its characters backward in time, the film propels them into the future, shifting the focus towards present growth and gender equality.
The narrative centers around Nora Esquivel, a physics professor from 1966 Mexico, brilliantly brought to life by multi-platinum singer Lucero. Alongside her supportive husband, Héctor (played by Benny Ibarra), Nora is deeply committed to constructing a time machine. Yet, despite their undeniable partnership, Nora frequently faces condescension at her workplace, often being perceived as merely an assistant rather than an equal partner in their project. This dynamic echoes historical injustices faced by female scientists, reminiscent of figures like Rosalind Franklin and Chien-Shiung Wu, who contributed significantly to major discoveries but were overlooked in accolades.
The plot thickens when their time machine malfunction leads them to an unexpected detour—2025—where they encounter a transformed societal landscape. Nora seeks assistance from her former student, Julia, now the dean, who eagerly supports her while encouraging Nora to seize the newfound opportunities for recognition. The contrast between 1960s gender roles and contemporary expectations becomes acutely evident as Nora and Héctor navigate modern technology and social norms.
Their charm as a couple frequently shines through, yet the film adds another layer: an inversion of traditional gender dynamics. As they grapple with their roles, Héctor begins to feel overshadowed within their partnership—a stark contrast to the excitement of their 1960s life. While the film touches on serious issues such as professional accolades and gender parities, there remains a missed opportunity for addressing the broader implications of these themes on both characters comprehensively.
In this regard, Our Times characterizes both Nora and Julia as emblems of progress. They represent contemporary women who have more visibility and chances for success in STEM fields, a narrative propelled by a sense of social justice. However, it would have benefitted from a deeper exploration of Héctor’s character, illuminating his feelings of inadequacy and how he reconciles with the shifting dynamics of his relationship with Nora. Rather than simply portraying him as a relic of traditional gender roles, the narrative could delve into the nuanced ways men face their own challenges as societal standards evolve.
Additionally, while the film’s central theme focuses on love and relationships—a common refrain in time travel narratives—the way it presents these emotional threads sometimes lacks depth. Particularly, it contrasts the gradual unraveling of Nora and Héctor’s marriage against an otherwise loving backdrop. As Héctor yearns for life as they knew it in the past, Nora is captivated by the possibilities of the present, creating a poignant rift fueled by the realization that personal aspirations often conflict with deeply ingrained societal expectations.
A particularly engaging element of the film is its exploration of the generational divide. Nora’s interactions with her grandniece Alondra, a physics student, highlight both nostalgia and the potential for growth, showcasing younger perspectives that challenge Nora’s traditions. Their journey together serves to underscore Nora’s evolution, shifting her from an ethos of constraint to one embracing potential.
Unlike typical time travel films that center on the mechanics of paradox or timelines, Our Times strategically pivots to the implications of time travel on personal lives, relationships, and societal roles. Ultimately, the film cleverly explores the significance of moving forward rather than dwelling on the past. It challenges audiences to consider how they can take agency over their lives within a linear framework, focusing on personal change and relationships rather than seeking to mend past mistakes.
Our Times serves as a reflection of contemporary dialogues surrounding gender roles, professional recognition, and personal growth, all embedded in the unique premise of time travel. As the film invites viewers into this exploration of possibility, it becomes a heartfelt meditation on how relationships adapt to changing environments and perceptions over time.
For those intrigued by the evolving narrative of gender and time, Our Times is currently streaming on Netflix, waiting to be discovered. It may not possess the intricate mechanics of traditional science fiction, but it weaves a narrative with enough charm and resonance to elevate its exploration of gender dynamics within a transformative societal landscape.
