Desaparecer por completo

Slow burn suspense, no jump scares (well, maybe two). Lovely cinematography. Leaves just enough to the imagination.

Sensationalist photographer begins to suffer mysterious supernatural side effects after continuously photographing illicit scenes. Negative effects gradually increase until his life is out of control and his attempts to handle the situation grow more and more desperate.

I viewed on Netflix, in original Spanish language with English subtitles, which were decently produced. Slow burn movie escalates to a nicely-portrayed climax.

If you're looking for a decent suspense flick, this'll do you just fine. Give it a go.

"Desaparecer por completo" is one of the best Mexican horror films ever made and one of the most iconic of the current decade. The script has influences from "Ringu" and tells us a story of body horror and even folk horror, bringing pagan customs to the city, witchcraft and satanism are present, as well as the "nota roja" (red note) news so popular in Mexican newspapers take an important part in this film. Tribute is paid to the famous photographer Enrique Metinides, who in life artistically took photographs of deaths and catastrophes, from this man and with other tributes to George A. Romero, creator of the iconic zombies, the screenwriter Ricardo Aguado-Fentanes devised this story of a photographer who loses his five senses one by one after discovering that he is a victim of witchcraft, thus leading us to body horror and folk horror. Director Luis Javier Henaine does a wonderful job, carrying each scene of his film with suspense. The cinematography is incredible, with atmospheric lighting that, together with the art direction, immerses us more in the theme of death and it should be noted that it was filmed with an aspect ratio of 3:2, just like a newspaper photography and the camera movements are only presented in one important scene within this feature film. Cinematography also breaks the barriers of the movie screen to make us look through the eyes of the protagonist, losing the sense of sight along with him. The sound design is also masterful, mainly by becoming monoaural, leading us to become the protagonist and another victim who is losing the hearing. The performances are wonderful and full of feeling, Harold Torres emanates the emotions of his character and transmits them to the audience. "Desaparecer por completo" is a complex horror cinematic experience, a synesthesia brought to the big screen.

If you are looking for cheap jump scares and don't want to think too much, skip this movie. This is for true horror fans. A masterpiece that left me thinking for days.

Everything in the movie is carefully executed, from the photography, sound design, production, acting, everything checks.

This is the kind of movie I miss, a really well told story with minimal to no special effects. Great slow burn and worth the watch.

Since I have to keep typing I'll just continue to state how sad it is to see bad reviews for movies like this, independently made, casting new actors, culturally charged stories and careful executed... that's why and how we get an Exorcist remade by a comedian.

Wait: you have been gone? No pun intended - also I don't remember the group that sang that song. But it doesn't matter because I only used that for my summary headline. No other connection in that sense. The movie is very well shot - and quite moody! The shock effects are really well chosen too.

If you like slow burning and really character driven stories ... well look no further! The movie that dares ... and dares you the viewer too. Towards the end you may think your sound system has issues ... but what you hear ... it is intended! So kudos for being brave and doing this ... it may lose the movie some viewers ... but it will on the other hand give it strong support from those who will absolutely love it ... we need movies to test limits and go beyond ... which could be seen as a pun I reckon ... intended? Well you'll be the judge ... from bystander to main figure ... what would you do? Strong images - beware.

"Disappear Completely" is a visually captivating film with outstanding performances and cinematography. However, as the story unfolds, viewers may find themselves longing for a deeper emotional connection, particularly towards the climax. Director Henaine adeptly portrays the protagonist's descent into darkness, yet the narrative lacks a glimmer of hope, leaving little room for redemption. Despite its adherence to contemporary horror conventions, the film's bleak conclusion enhances its credibility within the genre.

Henaine's direction, combined with effective utilization of sound and setting, heightens the protagonist's journey with subtle yet eerie intensity. Blending elements of investigative thriller and chilling horror, "Disappear Completely" is a skillfully crafted exploration of fear and suspense.

While the film delves into mysticism and tradition, its final moments offer a poignant contemplation on morality and the darker aspects of human nature. Although the script occasionally veers into unnecessary territory, the immersive portrayal of Santiago's journey, anchored by a stellar performance from Torres, keeps viewers engrossed throughout. Though not overtly frightening, "Disappear Completely" remains a compelling and suspenseful cinematic endeavour.

I wanted to give a 7/10 for the second half but the first half deserves a 9/10.