Arpón

Filmed almost entirely in frustrating close-ups so close only part of actors' faces fit on the screen, with heads and shoulders going in and out frame, this movie is hard to watch,. The detached direction and subdued lighting remove emotional attachment to any of the characters, who just seem like empty vessels, alienating viewers. That the pace is turgid does not help. Wasted talent all around.

The setting is a private middle/high school in the town of Berazategui, fronting the River Plate 30 km southeast of Buenos Aires. Berazategui is a middle class community where many people commute to work in Buenos Aires or other nearby large towns like La Plata, although there is some local industry.

Arguello, the headmaster seems unqualified for his position and his main jobs are constantly searching the student's backpacks and keeping students' problems under control and out of the view of education authorities. Professors are resentful, uninterested in teaching and their relation with students is one of mutual contempt. Even the building is dull, uncared for, with washed out walls. Students don't show many redeeming qualities. Parents are never seen and probably use the school to keep their offspring at a distance.

As for the movie, acting is first rate and direction is fluid, although the incident that gives its name to the movie is somewhat confusing. This incident happens on the shore of the River Plate (not of a lake, as the Plot Summary says). The river is 50 km. wide at this point so that the opposite Uruguayan coast lies below the horizon.

The total effect is suffocating. There are no characters that elicit empathy; even the only student that shows some originality and interest in learning is disparagingly depicted. The movie leaves a bitter aftertaste. Perhaps this is its point.