Experiencing Interruptions?

The big brother's manual

The arrival of the older brother seems harmless, until he reveals a manual that controls the younger brother's every action. Although the visitor leaves, the manual's power remains… and the rules aren't over.

  • José Luis Elvira Valenzuela
    Director
  • José Luis Elvira Valenzuela
    Writer
  • José Luis Elvira Valenzuela
    Producer
  • José Luis Elvira Valenzuela
    Key Cast
    "Younger brother"
  • Jaime González Briones
    Key Cast
    "Older brother"
  • Mónica Padilla
    Key Cast
    "Neighbor"
  • Eva Adriana Silva
    Key Cast
    "Cousin Eva"
  • Rosana Martínez
    Key Cast
    "Therapist Rosana"
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    El manual del hermano mayor
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Genres:
    Drama, Comedia
  • Runtime:
    17 minutes 40 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 17, 2025
  • Country of Origin:
    Mexico
  • Country of Filming:
    Mexico
  • Language:
    Spanish
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2.35:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - José Luis Elvira Valenzuela

José Luis Elvira is a university professor and technology communicator based in Guadalajara, Mexico. He teaches computer science and engineering courses at ITESO, specializing in operating systems, cloud architecture and programming. In addition to his academic work, he creates weekly technology segments for Quiero TV and hosts the podcast Click para Escuchar, where he shares insights on innovation, digital culture, and emerging tech.

He is known for his practical teaching style, his ability to explain complex concepts clearly, and his passion for helping students build real-world skills. Outside the classroom and studio, José Luis is currently exploring the art of filmmaking and enjoys learning how to shoot and produce short films.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

The Older Brother’s Manual is a playful yet intimate exploration of how childhood roles and unspoken family rules can persist well into adulthood. Through restrained camerawork, soft but tense lighting, and a controlled soundscape, the film turns a familiar domestic setting into a space of subtle domination and emotional pressure. My intention was to use humor and exaggeration to uncover a deeper truth: sometimes the “manuals” we inherit from our families shape us long after we believe we’ve outgrown them. I hope audiences recognize a piece of their own story in this dynamic and reflect on the invisible rules that still govern their lives.