A wild ride through Argentina’s horse-racing world
An absurdist comedy with a dark twist
Luis Ortega’s latest film, “Kill the Jockey”, takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the chaotic and vibrant world of Argentina’s horse-racing community. This absurdist comedy, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival, is a wild exploration of the lives of jockeys and horse owners, filled with eccentric characters and high-stakes drama. Ortega’s fascination with this world is evident as he describes it as “crazy and exciting,” with jockeys risking their lives in every race.
Watch the trailer for Kill the Jockey
A damaged protagonist with a matador’s pride
At the heart of the film is Remo Manfredini, a character who is deeply troubled and self-destructive. Played by Nahuel Pérez Biscayart, Remo abuses drugs and alcohol to the point where he falls off his horse before the race even begins. Despite his flaws, Remo exudes a certain self-possession and panache, reminiscent of a matador. Ortega, whose previous work includes the critically acclaimed “El Angel”, draws a parallel between Remo’s alienation and his own experiences as a filmmaker.
The brilliance of Nahuel Pérez Biscayart
Ortega is effusive in his praise for Pérez Biscayart, calling him “the best Argentinian actor we have.” Known for his award-winning performance in “120 BPM (Beats Per Minute)”, Pérez Biscayart brings a unique understanding of madness and a comfort with the ridiculous to his role in “Kill the Jockey”. His portrayal of Remo is both compelling and unsettling, capturing the character’s complex psyche.
Satire and societal critique
The film is imbued with a satirical tone, portraying Argentinian society as a snake pit of corruption and violence. Ortega uses humor as a coping mechanism, both for himself and his characters. This satirical approach allows the film to tackle serious themes without becoming overly heavy-handed. The setting of Buenos Aires adds a unique flavor to the story, but Ortega emphasizes that the film’s themes are universal, transcending geographical boundaries.
A unique visual style
One of the standout aspects of “Kill the Jockey” is its distinctive visual style. The film’s cinematography, helmed by Finnish D.P. Timo Salminen, who has worked on every Aki Kaurismäki film, gives it a unique look that sets it apart from other Argentinian films. Ortega is proud of this lack of a fixed identity, as it allows the film to stand on its own merits.
Surreal elements and thematic depth
The film’s surreal elements, such as the recurring appearance of babies, add to its depth and complexity. Remo’s mobster boss is always carrying a baby, and his girlfriend Abril, played by Úrsula Corberó of “Money Heist” fame, is pregnant. This motif ties into one of the film’s central themes: the connection between birth and death. Ortega draws inspiration from William S. Burroughs, who posited that death is necessary for birth to occur.
Personal reflections and future projects
Ortega’s own experiences as an expectant father influenced the film’s baby obsession. He describes how the impending arrival of his child haunted him, adding a personal layer to the story. Interestingly, Remo finds a sense of freedom only when he is incarcerated, a theme that resonates with Ortega’s observations of friends who have undergone profound transformations in prison.
Looking ahead, Ortega is working on a new film about a crack-smoking priest in Bolivia. This project promises to be just as intriguing and unconventional as “Kill the Jockey”. The story revolves around a priest who falls in love with a crazy actress and gets drawn into the world of crack smoking. The film will explore the fascinating duality of Bolivian miners who worship both God and the Devil, reflecting the complex interplay of faith and survival in their lives.
Final thoughts
“Kill the Jockey” is a bold and imaginative film that offers a unique perspective on the world of horse racing and the human condition. With its satirical tone, compelling characters, and distinctive visual style, it stands out as a remarkable piece of cinema. Luis Ortega’s ability to blend personal reflections with broader societal critiques makes this film a must-watch for enthusiasts of cinema, TV series, and music alike.
For those interested in exploring more about the film, you can watch the trailer for Kill the Jockey and delve into its captivating world.