1978 (2024) Review
By Ariel Powers-Schaub
In 1978 (2024), directed by Nicolás Onetti and Luciano Onetti, the definition of hell is debatable and boundaries are pushed. Screened at the Telluride Horror Show, the film depicts the 1978 World Cup Final between Argentina and Holland. The Argentinian government is a military dictatorship, and they are seeking out groups of rebels to torture and kill. With the distraction of the World Cup, a group of tortures kidnaps a group of young people. But with the realization they’ve kidnapped the wrong individuals, the tables quickly turn, as does the direction of the film.
The idea has potential, but unfortunately, the viewing experience of 1978 is uneven. The sets in the torture dungeons are visually interstesting, but the torture itself walks a strange line - not gory enough for the gorehounds, possibly too much for someone who doesn’t want to see gore. Though there may be viewers who find it just the right amount, it seemed as if the film couldn’t decide how hard it wanted to go with the torture.
Tension is added with a pregnant woman in captivity, and the rush to get her out before she gives birth. But once the film takes its turn, it’s clear where that part of the story will go, and the viewer is left waiting for it to unfold.
While it’s a unique film and added variety to the fest, it ultimately didn’t commit to its premise and therefore fell somewhat flat.
2.5 / 5 stars
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