La segunda muerte (The Second Death) is the first and only film I've seen from Santiago Fernández Calvete, who, as it turns out, is also an actor. I know next to nothing about him, but I've watched this film multiple times. It's a haunting and atmospheric piece that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll.
Argentinians, with their rich cultural heritage steeped in both darkness and light, are no strangers to the macabre. Their history, marked by revolutions, wars, and plagues, has fostered a unique sensibility that lends itself well to the horror genre. Their art and literature are often infused with a sense of the uncanny, the grotesque, and the supernatural.
It's a shame that we don't see more horror films coming out of Argentina. La segunda muerte is a testament to the country's potential in this genre. Calvete crafts a slow-burn thriller that relies on atmosphere and psychological tension rather than cheap jump scares. The film's sepia-toned visuals, punctuated by bursts of color in flashback sequences, create a sense of unease and foreboding.
The story, set in a small village plagued by mysterious deaths, is steeped in religious imagery and folklore. A young, clairvoyant boy claims that the Virgin Mary is responsible for the deaths, adding a layer of supernatural intrigue to the already unsettling narrative.
The performances are superb, with Agustina Lecouna delivering a standout performance as a determined policewoman investigating the strange occurrences. The supporting cast is equally strong, creating a believable and engaging ensemble of characters.
La Segunda muerte is a hidden gem of Argentinian cinema, a film that deserves wider recognition. It's a testament to the power of storytelling, the importance of cultural context, and the enduring appeal of the horror genre. If you're looking for a film that will chill you to the bone and leave you pondering its mysteries long after the final frame, La segunda muerte is definitely worth seeking out.
I sincerely hope that Calvete's film is not a one-off, but rather a sign of a burgeoning horror scene in Argentina. There's a wealth of untapped potential there, and I'm eager to see what other dark and twisted tales Argentinian filmmakers have to tell.
