Watch Ultimos Dias De La Victima
- 1982
- 1 hr 38 min
-
7.4 (530)
Ultimos Dias De La Victima (English title: The Last Days of the Victim) is a gripping Argentine thriller from 1982, directed by Adolfo Aristarain. The movie stars an impressive cast, including Federico Luppi, Soledad Silveyra, and Ulises Dumont. The story follows a veteran journalist named Jaime Andreu (Luppi), who is on the brink of a major break in his career. He's landed an interview with Elisa (Silveyra), the widow of a notorious criminal dubbed 'The Monster'. Elisa's testimony could be the breakthrough Jaime needs to expose the corrupt police department, headed by Comisario Castells (Dumont), that had protected The Monster while he was alive.
Despite the risks involved, Elisa agrees to speak out, and Jaime arranges to meet her at a safe house. But things quickly go awry, and they find themselves trapped inside with a group of armed men who seem to be working for Castells. As they try to evade their captors and survive the night, Jaime and Elisa must confront their past traumas and make difficult choices to stay alive.
The film's tense atmosphere is built through effective use of setting - the safe house is claustrophobic and dark, with narrow hallways and few exits. The camera work, lighting, and sound design all contribute to the sense of impending danger, and the actors deliver impressive performances that keep the tension high throughout.
In addition to the suspenseful main storyline, Ultimos Dias De La Victima also explores themes of abuse of power, corruption, and the trauma of violence. Jaime's investigative work is motivated by a desire for justice, but he's also wrestling with his own guilt and sense of responsibility for the crimes he's reported on. Elisa, meanwhile, is a complex character, whose motivations and loyalties are not immediately clear. Her connection to The Monster adds an extra layer of tension and ambiguity to the story.
The movie's portrayal of women is notable for its complexity and sensitivity. Elisa, along with another character, Maria (played by Ana Maria Picchio), are both portrayed as strong, capable, and independent. At the same time, the film acknowledges the reality of the threat that women face in a society where violence and exploitation are pervasive. In this way, Ultimos Dias De La Victima is both a thrilling crime drama and a thought-provoking commentary on social issues.
Ultimately, what sets Ultimos Dias De La Victima apart from other crime thrillers is its commitment to realism and nuance. The characters are not one-dimensional heroes or villains; instead, they are flawed and complicated human beings who must navigate difficult circumstances. The film's willingness to embrace ambiguity and complex emotional states makes it a powerful commentary on the effects of violence and corruption on individuals and society as a whole.
Overall, Ultimos Dias De La Victima is a must-see for fans of crime dramas and international cinema. With its masterful direction, talented cast, and thought-provoking themes, it's a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat while also challenging your assumptions about justice, morality, and human nature.