Friendly Beast
Friendly Beast

Movie spotlight

Friendly Beast

2018
Movie
98 min
Portuguese

A restaurant owner going over the edge when an armed robbery is attempted at his establishment. He holds everyone captive at gunpoint – criminals and customers alike – and situations corrode into a nightmare state, guided by manipulation and raw compulsion.

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Google Users76%
Director: Lucía PuenzoGenres: Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

A successful film director finds his life intertwined with that of a cruel military veterinarian involved in torture during the dictatorship. The director begins to document the veterinarian's life, blurring the lines between his own moral compass and the disturbing reality he is uncovering. This unusual relationship forces both men to confront their past actions and the consequences they have wrought.

Critical Reception

Friendly Beast received a mixed to positive reception from critics, with many praising its unsettling atmosphere and strong performances, particularly from Luis Gnecco. Some reviews noted its slow pacing and challenging themes, but generally, it was seen as a thought-provoking and impactful film exploring dark aspects of Argentinian history and human nature.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its disturbing psychological depth and the lead actor's compelling performance.

  • The film effectively creates a tense and unsettling atmosphere.

  • Some viewers found the narrative's ambiguity and dark subject matter challenging.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's effectiveness in creating a suspenseful and thought-provoking experience, with many appreciating the performances. Some users found the subject matter heavy and the pacing slow, but the overall sentiment leans towards a powerful and memorable cinematic work.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Film at the Mar del Plata International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film's setting in a remote, isolated location contributes significantly to its oppressive and claustrophobic atmosphere, mirroring the psychological state of its characters.

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