Relatos Salvajes (2014)
Wild Tales
Raiting: 
8 /10
Genre: Comedy
Director: Damián Szifron
Stars: Rita Cortese, Ricardo Darín and Nancy Dupláa
Country: Argentina / Spain
Release date: 21 August 2014
Length: 122 minutes
"Relatos Salvajes" (English: "Wild Tales") is a 2014 Argentine black comedy anthology film composed of six standalone shorts, connected by a common theme of violence and vengeance. Directed by Damián Szifron, this film delves into the darker aspects of human nature, exploring what happens when people are pushed to their limits.
The first story, "Pasternak", takes place on an airplane where passengers realize they all have a common acquaintance, the titular Pasternak. As they share how they know him and how he was negatively affected by their actions, a shocking revelation unfolds, setting the tone for the rest of the film.
In "Las Ratas" ("The Rats"), a waitress recognizes her client as the loan shark who drove her family to ruin. The cook offers to help by proposing to poison the man's food, leading to a tense standoff filled with moral dilemmas and unexpected consequences.
The third tale, "El más fuerte" ("The Strongest"), features two drivers on a deserted road who engage in a deadly game of road rage, escalating to extreme measures. This segment is a raw depiction of the primal aggression that can surface when civility is stripped away.
"Bombita" ("Little Bomb") tells the story of an engineer who becomes a folk hero after his life unravels due to a series of parking fines. His retaliation against the bureaucratic system that wronged him takes an explosive turn, both literally and figuratively.
In the fifth story, "La Propuesta" ("The Proposal"), a wealthy man's son is involved in a hit-and-run accident. The family attempts to cover up the incident by offering their groundskeeper money to take the blame, exposing the corruption and moral bankruptcy of the privileged class.
The final segment, "Hasta que la muerte nos separe" ("Till Death Do Us Part"), depicts a lavish wedding that turns chaotic when the bride discovers her new husband has been unfaithful. What starts as the happiest day of her life spirals into a wild and vengeful meltdown during the reception.
Throughout "Relatos Salvajes", Szifron uses dark humor and satire to reflect on the societal pressures and injustices that can lead ordinary people to commit extraordinary acts. The film's sharp writing, strong performances, and adept direction create a compelling anthology that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, questioning the thin line between civilization and savagery.
Top cast - Relatos Salvajes (2014)
Trailer - Relatos Salvajes (2014)
"Relatos Salvajes", directed by Damián Szifron, is a brilliantly crafted anthology that takes viewers on a wild ride through the extremes of human behavior. Comprising six standalone stories, each segment serves as a snapshot of people pushed past their breaking points, resulting in darkly comic and often violent outcomes. This 2014 film is a standout in the black comedy genre, showcasing Szifron's sharp eye for societal observation and his ability to weave humor into the most tense of situations.
The ensemble cast delivers performances that are as diverse as the stories themselves. Each actor brings a unique energy to their role, whether it's the distressed bride in the final chapter or the vengeful driver in "El más fuerte." The characters are relatable in their frustrations, and the extreme lengths they go to in seeking retribution resonate on a visceral level. The film's ability to make viewers empathize with, if not outright cheer for, the characters' often questionable actions is a testament to the storytelling and the performances.
Visually, "Relatos Salvajes" is stunning, with each segment boasting its own aesthetic that complements the story's mood. From the claustrophobic interiors of the airplane in "Pasternak" to the vast, open roads in "El más fuerte", the cinematography is thoughtful and immersive, often becoming a character in its own right. The score and sound design further enhance the viewing experience, punctuating the film's dramatic beats and adding to the overall tension and release.
What truly sets "Relatos Salvajes" apart is Szifron's script, which is both biting and insightful. The director taps into universal themes of revenge, injustice, and the human condition, but does so with such wit and verve that the audience is left oscillating between shock and laughter. Each narrative is tightly woven, with no wasted moments, leading to climaxes that are as satisfying as they are surprising.
However, it's worth noting that the film's dark themes and violence might not be to everyone's taste. "Relatos Salvajes" does not shy away from depicting the brutality of its characters' actions, which can be unsettling. Yet, for those who appreciate its satirical take on the thin veneer of civilized society, the film is a thrilling exploration of the cathartic release that comes from breaking societal norms.
In conclusion, "Relatos Salvajes" is a masterful anthology that entertains as much as it provokes thought. Damián Szifron has created a film that is both a social commentary and a showcase of narrative ingenuity. Its universal appeal lies in the fact that, at some point, everyone has felt the urge to rebel against the frustrations of life. "Relatos Salvajes" not only acknowledges this urge but revels in the chaos that ensues when the impulse is acted upon. It's a wild, unforgettable journey that confirms Szifron's prowess as a storyteller and filmmaker.