They say truth is stranger than fiction. After seeing The Clan, you’ll be inclined to agree.
On the surface the Puccios look like most other families. But something sinister is lurking behind the closed doors of the Puccios’ home. Family patriarch Arquimedes (Guillermo Francella), along with the help of his eldest son (Peter Lanzani) have started a deadly family business that involves kidnapping members of wealthy families for ransom, and then swiftly disposing of victims after receiving the money.
Based on a series of real-life crimes that took place in Argentina in the 1980s, The Clan tells a shocking true story that was likely unknown to many living in the U.S. But Miami International Film Festival certainly made progress in changing that. A hit in its native Argentina, The Clan had its U.S. Premiere at the Miami International Film Festival’s 4-day fall festival GEMS, where it enjoyed two sold out screenings, both of which were attended by director Pablo Trapero and international star Guillermo Francella (Secret in Their Eyes). The director and actor charmed audiences as they walked the red carpet and chatted with press at MDC’s Tower Theater, located in the heart of Little Havana. A far cry from the calculated, steely-eyed murderer of the film, Francella, alongside Trapero, participated in a Q&A following the screening, where they gave a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of the film.
The Clan went on to take home the coveted Gigi Guermont GEMS Audience Award, marking itself as a clear audience favorite of the 14 acclaimed films that screened.
Miami critics have been quick to embrace the film as well. Hans Morgenstern of Independent Ethos has called the film “one of the most demented movies Argentina has ever produced,” and goes on to praise the film’s expert use of dark humor used to confront Argentina’s uncomfortable past; while Rene Rodriguez of the Miami Herald called it a “taut, polished thriller.”
If you missed the GEMS U.S. Premiere, you’re in luck: You can see it this weekend at MDC’s Tower Theater. For showtimes and tickets, visit: http://towertheatermiami.com/details/18019.aspx
GEMS Festival 2016 dates have been announced; October 13-16, 2016, where you’ll have your next chance to see the newest crown jewels of the cinematic season.
