No se aceptan devoluciones
"Life doesn't care if you're ready."
Instructions Not Included - Symbolism & Philosophy
Symbols & Motifs
The Wolves
They represent fear and the traumas of Valentín's childhood. Initially terrifying, they eventually become companions he learns to walk beside, symbolizing his acceptance of fear as a part of life.
Seen in flashbacks of his father's harsh lessons and in hallucinations when Valentín faces stressful situations.
La Quebrada Cliff
Represents the ultimate leap of faith and the terrifying nature of the unknown. It frames the story, appearing in the beginning as a source of trauma and at the end as a site of peace.
Used in the opening flashback where Valentín's father throws him off, and referenced in the ending.
The $10 Bill
Symbolizes the unexpected value of a burden. What started as a petty debt (cab fare) became the "best investment" of his life—his daughter.
Referenced in the final monologue as the cost of the taxi Julie took when she left Maggie.
The Stuntman Job
A metaphor for Valentín's parenting style: taking hits and facing danger to create a magical illusion for the one he loves.
Valentín works as a stuntman, enduring physical pain to support Maggie while pretending to be fearless.
Philosophical Questions
Is it better to know the truth of a tragedy or live in a beautiful lie?
The film asks if Valentín was right to hide Maggie's mother's abandonment and later her own illness from her. It suggests that the quality of joy in her life mattered more than the factuality of her circumstances.
Does biology define parenthood?
Through the custody battle, the film posits that 'parent' is a verb, not a noun. Valentín's lack of biological certainty (initially) and lack of 'qualifications' are irrelevant compared to his presence and love.
Core Meaning
The film fundamentally explores the concept of facing life without being ready. While Valentín's father tried to "train" him to conquer fear through harsh exposure (the "wolves"), Maggie teaches him that true courage comes from love and vulnerability. The film suggests that the greatest challenges in life—parenthood and loss—come without instructions, and the only way to navigate them is to embrace the present moment with joy, even when the future is uncertain.