Day 95- Movie 96. The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)

The Secret in Their Eyes is another movie recommended to me (the recommendations I've had have all been solid, solid movies) and it is a great film. It's a very well deserving 2009 Academy Award winner for Best Foreign Film. The movie is an extremely well made crime drama whose romantic elements play an equal (or larger) role in the final product. This is a movie that doesn't necessarily do much brand new, but it executes beautifully. This is a well crafted and expertly made film.

The story is about a legal counselor (Ricardo Darin) who reflects back on the case that he could never get out of his mind- the rape and murder of a young woman. This is the central thread of the story, but there's so many others that are weaved together beautifully. Perhaps the most powerful is the story of his unrequited love for his superior (Soledad Villamil), who plays a key role in the investigation of the aforementioned crime. This movie expertly blends crime drama, romance, and thriller together in a powerful, memorable package.

What I really enjoyed about this movie is its layers of complexity. This is a movie I imagine could be watched again and again, and you'd pick up on different elements with every viewing. It is a movie full of symbolism and meaning. The story unfolds slowly, but has clear momentum as it builds towards its surprising conclusion. The film does occasionally move too slowly and does feature a few outlandish moments, but for the most part, this is a realistic, enjoyable movie that gives you a great deal to think about. I sometimes complain about movies being too lightweight- you don't have that problem here- The Secret in Their Eyes is a heavy, deep film.

This is a film that was made with great care and intelligence. It deals with thought-provoking, complex, and occasionally disturbing themes. It never panders to the audience as it tells a very film noir type story. It reminded me of the films that were made in the United States in the 40s, of which too few are made today. I really liked this movie a great deal. I will give The Secret in Their Eyes a great 8/10.

Well, I'm now +1 movies. I have 5 days to watch 4 movies, and today isn't over yet. I admit I could easily finish this day off without watching another movie,  but I'd love to go up two today. I'll see if I can muster up enough energy to knock off a third film today. As far as this one, I'll pass the recommendation on- see this movie- you won't be disappointed (as long as you don't hate subtitles)