Movie spotlight
El mudo
Constantino Zegarra is a principled Peruvian government official who stands apart from his corrupt colleagues. Throughout his two-decade career, he has steadfastly resisted corruption, driven by the memory of his father's impoverished end due to corruption. At forty, he is a dedicated family man with a teenage daughter who challenges his views. One morning, he survives a gunshot to the throat, rendering him mute. Upon recovery, he is certain that someone from his office attempted to kill him.
Insights
Plot Summary
A lonely, aging tailor named Cardenas, who has always been perceived as an observer, is thrown into a world of danger when he accidentally witnesses a murder. He tries to erase the evidence of what he saw, but soon finds himself entangled in the criminal underworld. As the killers close in, Cardenas must confront his own passive nature and find a way to survive.
Critical Reception
El mudo received mixed to positive reviews, often praised for its suspenseful atmosphere and lead performance, though some critics found its pacing and narrative to be uneven. It was particularly noted for its unique approach to a thriller, focusing on internal tension rather than overt action.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its tense, atmospheric build-up.
Julio Manon's performance as the protagonist is a significant highlight.
Some found the plot predictable or the pacing too slow.
Google audience: Audience reception information for El mudo is not widely available or consistently tracked on Google.
Fun Fact
The film was screened in the Directors' Fortnight section at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.
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