Directed by J.A. Bayona, "Society of the Snow" embarks on the daunting journey of depicting the 1972 Andes plane crash survival, skillfully balancing the horror and resilience of the Old Christians rugby team. The Spanish-language film, adapted from Pablo Vierci's book, features a talented cast, including Valentino Alonso, Enzo Vogrincic, and Matías Recalt, delivering powerful performances.

Summary:

"Society of the Snow" unfolds the gripping narrative of the October 13, 1972, Uruguayan plane crash, immersing viewers in the Old Christians rugby team's 10-week struggle for survival in the treacherous Andes. The film masterfully intertwines actual Andes footage with scenes shot in Spain's Sierra Nevada mountains, capturing the visceral terror of the crash and the subsequent battle for life.

Likes and Dislikes:

The film impressively blends Andes and Sierra Nevada shots, providing a visually captivating account of the harrowing events. J.A. Bayona's horror expertise shines through in the visceral depiction of the plane crash, effectively portraying the characters' disoriented post-accident state. However, "Society of the Snow" falls short in delivering the immediacy found in documentaries like "Stranded: I’ve Come From a Plane That Crashed on the Mountains," leaving room for a more immersive experience.

Actors' Performances:

The cast, led by Valentino Alonso and Matías Recalt, delivers authentic performances, capturing the emotional and physical challenges faced by the survivors. Despite the challenging subject matter, the actors convey the complexity of their characters, especially when grappling with the unthinkable decision to resort to anthropophagy for survival.

Verdict:

While "Society of the Snow" excels in visually portraying the horrifying plane crash and subsequent survival struggles, it lacks the depth and immediacy found in documentaries. The film's nuanced approach to depicting the survivors' decision for cannibalism may leave viewers desiring a more unflinching portrayal. The impact of watching this film on streaming platforms like Netflix at home might diminish the intended effect. Nevertheless, "Society of the Snow" remains a compelling exploration of human resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. With a runtime of 2 hours and 24 minutes, it delivers a haunting cinematic experience. The star rating for "Society of the Snow" stands at a commendable 3.5 out of 5.