The Secret in Their Eyes

2009, 18, Directed by Juan José Campanella
Starring: Ricardo Darin, Soledad Villamil, Pablo Rago, Carla Quevedo

Beating heavyweight contenders in the 2010 Oscar for Best Foreign Film, all it takes to understand why Argentine film The Secret in Their Eyes emerged victorious is one simple watch. The plot follows Benjamin, a retired legal counsellor who decides to write a novel about a past unsolved homicide case, whilst battling his evident love for his superior, Irene. Anything you think this film is will be exceeded by the climax. Benjamin himself is a magnificent creation, warm and dedicated, brought to life by Ricardo Darin; during the scenes set in the past, you never doubt his dedication to right the wrong cruelly inflicted upon an innocent woman; in the present, you never doubt how much the past has haunted him, yet has somehow remained a decent, honest example of life hurling the blows at the good cops. His relationship with Irene (a shining Soledad Villamil) is enhanced by the constant casual chemistry on display. Being led through the film by these two characters is an experience in itself, their charm and camaraderie - not to mention their restricted sexual tension - effervescent throughout. The Secret in Their Eyes has more than enough moments to justify its Oscar win: look no further than a scene at a football stadium where Benjamin and his partner Pablo find a needle in a haystack as they attempt to catch a suspect – all rivetingly captured in one astounding long take. Focusing on the death of an innocent girl combined with a man obsessed with the idea of solving the case may have a Girl with the Dragon Tattoo-esque feel, however Juan José Campanella’s adaptation of Eduardo Sacheri’s novel has style and substance merged to an ace level.

There may be the odd flicker where the film, starts to drag, but due to intense interaction combined with head-slappingly shocking plot twists, The Secret in Their Eyes is an underdog of the rarest kind; one that lives up to the hype... and it's no secret.

4.5/5

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