Man Facing Southeast
Man Facing Southeast

Movie spotlight

Man Facing Southeast

1987
Movie
109 min
Spanish

A new patient mysteriously appears in a psychiatric ward. He claims to come from another planet to study humans and their behavior. The alien is gentle but criticizes humans for their harsh treatment of each other. The assigned psychiatrist is himself unhappy, and affected by the patient's insight. But he is ordered to treat the patient according to institutional procedure.

Insights

IMDb7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Google Users89%
Director: Eliseo SubielaGenres: Sci-Fi, Drama, Mystery

Plot Summary

Dr. Salas, the director of a Buenos Aires psychiatric hospital, is intrigued by the arrival of a mysterious patient named Rantés. Rantés claims to be an extraterrestrial visitor from the planet Proxima Centauri, sent to observe humanity. Initially skeptical, Salas finds himself increasingly drawn into Rantés's serene wisdom and unique perspective on life, love, and the human condition. As Rantés's presence begins to positively impact the other patients and staff, Salas grapples with his own doubts and the possibility that Rantés might indeed be telling the truth.

Critical Reception

Eliséeo Subiela's 'Man Facing Southeast' is a critically acclaimed Argentine science fiction drama, lauded for its philosophical depth and thought-provoking narrative. It garnered significant attention for its unique blend of introspection and speculative fiction, resonating with audiences and critics alike for its poignant exploration of humanity and the unknown. The film is often cited as a masterpiece of Argentine cinema and a standout in the science fiction genre.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its profound philosophical questions about existence and humanity.

  • Applauded for its unique and gentle approach to science fiction, focusing on character and theme over special effects.

  • Recognized for its emotional resonance and lingering sense of wonder.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's ability to provoke deep thought and introspection, with many appreciating its melancholic yet hopeful tone. Viewers found the narrative compelling and the central mystery captivating, often leaving a lasting emotional impact.

Awards & Accolades

Winner of multiple awards including the FIPRESCI Prize at the Tokyo International Film Festival and awards at the Fantasporto Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film's title, 'Man Facing Southeast,' refers to the direction one would face to see the star Proxima Centauri from Earth's Southern Hemisphere, where the story is set.

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