Carne de perro

Carne de perro, is an award winning Chilean film directed by Fernando Guzzoni. Released in 2012, the movie features a powerhouse performance from Alejandro Goic, along with stellar support from Amparo Noguera and Alfredo Castro, which creates a stirring and impactful narrative.

In this film, Goic plays Alejandro, a middle-aged man working as a part-time locksmith, battling the demons of his past. The movie subtly yet poetically delves into Alejandro's angst, pain, and guilt, born from his hidden history. The film's focus, however, isn't Alejandro's past but rather his struggle with the present, a present that is relentlessly dogged by specters of the past.

The storyline of this movie explores the concept of historical memory, combining personal issues with collective experiences. The narrative is foggy and mysterious, leaving room for interpretation. The film takes a hard look at the consequences of a conflict-ridden past on individuals and how it shapes their present.

Chile's history deeply influences its characters and the film as a whole. This provides it with an authentic backdrop, reflecting upon the sociopolitical conditions of the country that seep their way into the characters of the film.

Alejandro Goic delivers a formidable performance, presenting a man who is slapped by the force of remorse, despair, and helplessness. His portrayal carries an undercurrent of significant psychological complexity, depicting the socio-political circumstances against which the posterity of Chile has had to rebel and evolve.

Working alongside Goic, Amparo Noguera, known for her compelling performances, adds depth to the story. Her character encompasses the embodiment of tranquility and support that contrasts with Alejandro's turmoil. She subtly influences the plot and does so in a manner that has massive implications for Alejandro's future. Alfredo Castro, too, in his role, complements the turmoil and suffering that Goic enacts on the big screen.

The general tone of the movie is firmly wedged between being reminiscent and melancholic, blending moments of quiet and trauma. Gamma cinematography is used brilliantly, with light and shade in perfect symmetry, presenting a tense vastness and grimness associated with Alejandro's on-going personal struggle.

Director Fernando Guzzoni presents everyday life with an unusual mix of stark realism and artistic symbolism. Instead of spoon-feeding the audience with obvious plot details, he gives them the chance to be part of the storyline through the gradual unfolding of Alejandro's past. The method by which Guzzoni does this is characterized by naturalism and minimalism, creating a story that is subtly shocking, thought-provoking, and deeply affecting.

Guzzoni successfully channels deep subtext through minimal dialogue, instead of choosing to tell the story through framing, facial expressions, and body language. The background score adds an additional layer of depth, conveying an eerie sense of dread that is palpable throughout the entire narrative.

This heavy echo of Alejandro's past is presented in such a way that it will make the audience ponder over what they believe is right or wrong since Carne de perro refuses to offer a judgmental approach. It shocks, but does it subtly, it awakens, but does it gradually, and it intrigues, but does it in an elusive way.

If you're seeking to dive into a movie that gauges beyond the superficial layers of a character's persona, Carne de perro is an unmissable cinematic experience. Guzzoni's masterful storytelling, coupled with a mesmerizing, heartrending performance from Alejandro Goic, makes 'Carne de perro' more than just a movie. It is an emotionally-stirring ride that forces us to review our knowledge of past narratives and their effect on the human psyche.

To conclude, Carne de perro is an intense film that will grip you until the very end. From its thought-provoking storyline to its excellent, believable performances, the film represents quality cinema at its best.