Perhaps we should have an alternative to the Oscars, where movies with heart and morality get awarded. I wish that for Argentina, 1985.
Argentina, 1985, directed by Santiago Mitre, which he co-wrote with Mariano Llinas and Martin Mauregui, possesses so much quality that I overcame my weariness over courtroom dramas and could get over the English language overdubbing which I thought stopped with the old time Godzilla movies. That’s how compelling this true story was, though I confess I chunked it into three nights’ worth due to its length. I’m quite sure it’s emotional impact (yes I cried at the end) would have been even deeper had I been able to strap in at a theater. I seem to repeat this almost every blog, but for shame to whoever the hell keeps these type movies from theater experiences.
The acting was top notch. Ricardo Darin was just amazing as the self-less brave prosecutor as was his younger patriotic born law partner, played by Peter Lanzani. The actress who played Darin’s wife (Alejandra Flechner) and son (Santiago Armas Estevarena) were also fantastic.
The director and writers expertly put together the case and had just the right amount of suspense and subplots. I truly enjoyed this film and considering the story portrayed a national hero, an alternative nice guy and girl film awards show might be apropos. Movies would have a sports-like competition, where only the best films with true stories that end with justice are in competition.
