听 An elderly violinist is stuck between two camps in this commendable drama set in 1970s rural Mexico. While his fellow villagers hide out in the mountains preparing a revolt, Don Plutarco rides into the occupied territory on a donkey, and gradually charms suspicious military officials with his violin playing. He appears to win the soldiers' trust, but there's a constant sense of threat in this downbeat but disturbing tale. Shot in black and white, it's a challenging yet rewarding watch.
The opening scenes of El Violin are almost too much to bear. Villagers are tortured and raped by the military, while their neighbours sob, bound and gagged - unable to help, and aware that they're next. But these disturbing scenes are a necessary evil that drive the narrative forward. When Don Plutarco goes to see the soldiers, we are only too aware of what they are capable of, and what is at risk. A man of few words but possessing a grizzled, steely nerve, Plutarco puts his life on the line in an attempt to help those he loves. The film refuses to give in to any kind of sentiment, however, presenting a stark tragedy that doesn't need an extra dose of melodrama.
"WILL KEEP YOU GRIPPED TO THE FINAL REEL"
After the opening horrors, the build-up to Don Plutarco's encounter is a little slow, dwelling on the activities of his son and grandson too laboriously. But once he reaches an uneasy agreement with the squad captain, the scene is set for a subtle game of strategy between two different, but equally hardened men - and one that will keep you gripped to the final grim reel.
El Violin is out in the UK on 4th January 2008.
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