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Wednesday, April 24, 2024
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HOLLYWOOD THE 33
EDITOR'S PICK
'The
33': A well made inspirational film (IANS Movie Review)
Rating:
***1/2
Based on a real incident that occurred in the mines of Chile, "The 33"
is a riveting, heart wrenching survival drama that reinstates your faith in god.
It is the retelling of the 2010 Chilean mining accident, where 33 miners were
trapped in the San Jose Mine, situated in the Atacama Desert. How the miners
hold on to their sanity and hopes while they wait for extrication, forms the
crux of the tale.
Those following the incident would probably know the outcome of the accident:
the miners were rescued after 69 days. But what makes Patricia Riggen's film,
worth a watch is the outstanding performance by its principal cast and the
sincerity with which she has handled the subject - constantly reminding the
audience that surviving this situation is nothing short of a miracle.
While the entire world watched what transpired above ground during the gruelling
and long drawn out rescue, she brings to the surface the saga of the miners'
experiences from Hector Tobar's book titled, "Deep Down Dark: The Untold
Stories of the 33 Men Buried in the Chilean Mine and the Miracle That Set Them
Free".
The crisp script, written by Jose Rivera, Mikko Alanne, Craig Borten and Michael
Thomas divides its focus among four distinct groups: The miners deep in the
Earth's belly, the rescue operation along with the miners' families, the
government and the media.
Playing the emotional note, the film relies on easy sentiment to fill the many
gaps in its characterisation. The plot emphasises on family ties and bonding.
With scenes that indulge in flashback, inspirational spiels, group prayers and
the desperate attempt for a successful rescue operation, it propels the story
forward making the narration interesting as well as dramatic.
What adds to the flavour is James Horner's South American notes and sentimental
composition that layer the dim desperation of these men. The lilting musical
score makes it feel like a divine moment of relief and is visually playful
without going over the top.
The bevy of fine actors who give powerful performances include Banderas as Mario
Sepulveda, the default leader of the group who does not command his men but
exudes confidence, the will to survive and be together. It is touching to hear
him say, "They'll dig us out. If they don't our families will, with their
bare hands if it's necessary. I believe we'll make it out of here because I
choose to believe it. All 33 of us!"
He is supported by characters with various issues. Looking dirty and grimy, they
may seem archetypical but nevertheless they were the survivors and they all do a
fantastic job. Lou Diamond Phillips as the guilt ridden foreman Don Lucho is
noteworthy.
Juliette Binoche as Maria Segovia, the "empanada" vendor along with
her troubled brother Dario played by Jaun Pablo Raba, Rodrigo Sabtoro as the
minister of mining, Bob Goton as Chilean President Pinera and Gabriel Byrne as
the chief engineer Andre Sougarret, add a repertoire of emotions.
The camera work along with the creative lighting amidst darkness of the mines is
worth a mention.
"The 33" is a well made inspirational film that reminds you of the
1951 release "Ace In The Hole".
