Educational Media Reviews Online

Set in the fictional South American town of Cincoesquinas, this feature-length motion picture from 1996 draws heavily on magic realism to relate the story of Erasmo (José Luis Alfonzo) as he searches for El Zancudo (Walter Reyno), the man who murdered his Indian wet-nurse amid a revolution at the turn of the century. Along the way Erasmo befriends Saúl (Martín Kalwill), an Orthodox Jew also looking for El Zancudo. Realizing that they both share similar gifts yet possess singular personalities they work together to locate this powerful and protected man.

This is director Daniel Burman’s first feature-length film. He is an emerging player in the New Argentine Cinema who has also directed Esperando al mesías, (“Waiting for the Messiah”) and El abrazo partido.

Despite an uncomplicated plot, Burman’s magic realistic elements lend a confusing surreal tone to the film. As in a dream, many events are not explained and are left to the imagination and interpretation of the audience.

Of special interest is a rare glimpse into the Jewish experience in Latin America at the turn of the century. As with Esperando al mesías, Burman inserts Jewish cultural and religious elements into the film for the audience to consider on a secondary level.

The sound quality is good and the video quality is acceptable. The English language subtitles to the Spanish dialogue are legible and accurate.

This motion picture is recommended for a library collection with a comprehensive collection of Latin American motion pictures in support of a film studies program.

It is recommended for college students, adult viewers, and the libraries that serve them.