Review of 'Borges and Me': A Nostalgic Journey Through Literature

New Delhi, India Aug 30, 2026 ALN: Revered Argentine writer Jose Luis Borges is rendered a colorful, quirky agent to a young writer's creative and romantic awakening in Marc Turteltaub's amiable, loosely biographical film. The film, titled "Borges and Me," draws inspiration from American author Jay Parini’s 2020 memoir “Borges and Me: An Encounter,” which recounts a serendipitous road trip the author took with Borges through the Scottish Highlands during his college years in the 1970s. This anecdote, rich with literary nostalgia and personal revelation, serves as the foundation for Turteltaub’s cinematic adaptation.

Parini’s memoir is more than just a charming tale; it encapsulates a moment in literary history where two distinct worlds collided. Borges, a titan of 20th-century literature, known for his profound explorations of infinity, labyrinths, and the nature of reality, meets a young writer still in the throes of self-discovery. This juxtaposition of the established literary giant and the fledgling writer creates a fertile ground for exploration of themes such as mentorship, creativity, and the transformative power of literature.

As any good anecdote often does, Parini’s story feels healthily embellished, capturing the essence of Borges as a character larger than life. Borges was indeed known for his eccentricities, and Turteltaub’s film takes this characterization and amplifies it, creating a vibrant portrayal that serves both as homage and as a narrative device. As a feature film, “Borges and Me” may feel extended beyond its natural capacity; it oscillates between being a tall story and a thin one, yet the charm remains palpable throughout the viewing experience.

The film benefits considerably from the tawny, textured splendor of its Scottish locations, which are captured with dewy autumnal crispness by cinematographer Christopher Norr. The landscapes are not merely a backdrop but serve as a character in their own right, reflecting the emotional journey of the protagonists. The serene beauty of the Scottish Highlands contrasts sharply with the chaos of their adventure, enhancing the film's nostalgic and sentimental tone. This setting was ideally suited for its home-turf world premiere at the Edinburgh Film Festival, where it resonated with audiences familiar with both Borges’ literary legacy and the enchanting allure of Scotland.

As the film progresses, it is likely to appeal to a broad spectrum of viewers, particularly those who appreciate the intersection of literature and cinema. Its transatlantic co-production, featuring a mix of British, South American, and North American talent, positions it well for global arthouse-crossover distribution. The casting of Chilean veteran Luis Gnecco as Borges and Fionn Whitehead as the young Parini adds an intriguing layer to the film. Gnecco’s portrayal of Borges captures the twinkling genius of the writer, while Whitehead’s performance as the earnest yet bewildered Parini brings to life the youthful enthusiasm and vulnerability of a writer on the cusp of discovery.

As played by Whitehead, the young Parini may be fairly advanced in his studies — he is an English literature doctoral student at St. Andrews University in Scotland — yet he exudes an unworldly quality, embodied in his just-askew tortoiseshell glasses and oversized duffel coat. His character, a native of Pennsylvania, is portrayed as a fish out of water, struggling to navigate the complexities of both his academic life and the cultural nuances of his Scottish surroundings. His shy, sweet earnestness makes him an easy target for good-humored ribbing by his breezily bohemian supervisor, the poet Alastair Reid, played by Alan Cumming, who delivers a performance that is both engaging and authentic.

Reid, a scholar of South American literature and a leading translator of Borges’ work, invites the Chilean writer to stay with him at his ramshackle coastal cottage. This invitation sets the stage for the unexpected adventure that unfolds when Reid leaves for a last-minute trip to London, inadvertently leaving Parini in the role of Borges’ caretaker. This dynamic creates a unique tension, as Parini is thrust into a position of responsibility for the brilliant, eccentric, and sightless septuagenarian visitor. The film deftly explores the themes of mentorship and the complexities of literary relationships, highlighting the impact of Borges on Parini’s burgeoning identity as a writer.

Parini’s initial bewilderment quickly gives way to fascination as he navigates the challenges of being Borges’ babysitter while simultaneously preparing for his own scholarly pursuits. The week coincides with Parini's plan to drive into the Highlands to interview his Ph.D. subject, the elusive poet George Mackay Brown, portrayed by Peter Mullan in a mischievous extended cameo. This intersection of personal ambition and unexpected responsibility drives the narrative forward, leading to a series of comedic and poignant moments that reflect the unpredictability of life and creativity.

As “Borges and Me” unfolds, viewers are treated to a delightful blend of humor, introspection, and literary reverence. The film captures the essence of what it means to be a writer, the struggles of finding one’s voice, and the profound influence that literary giants can have on aspiring authors. The relationship between Borges and Parini serves as a microcosm of the larger literary world, where mentorship, inspiration, and the sharing of ideas can lead to unexpected journeys.

In conclusion, Marc Turteltaub’s “Borges and Me” is an engaging exploration of creativity, mentorship, and the transformative power of literature. While the film may stretch the boundaries of its source material, it remains a charming and nostalgic journey that resonates with both literary enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. As it continues its festival circuit and prepares for wider distribution, it is poised to capture the hearts of audiences around the world, inviting them to reflect on their own literary journeys and the figures who have shaped their understanding of the written word.