The Secret in Their Eyes: A Masterclass in Argentine Cinema and Justice
The Secret in Their Eyes (Spanish: El secreto de sus ojos) is a gripping 2009 crime drama that transcends the boundaries of a typical murder mystery. Directed, produced, and edited by Juan José Campanella, the film is a poignant exploration of memory, obsession, and the enduring quest for justice. Based on the 2005 novel La pregunta de sus ojos by Eduardo Sacheri, the movie weaves a complex narrative that mirrors the turbulent political history of Argentina.
The story centers on the professional and personal relationship between Benjamín Espósito, a judiciary agent, and Irene Hastings, his superior. Their lives are forever linked by a brutal rape and murder case from the 1970s, a mystery that continues to haunt Espósito decades later.
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Key Facts
- Director: Juan José Campanella.
- Lead Actors: Ricardo Darín and Soledad Villamil.
- Major Award: Won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 82nd Oscars.
- Box Office: Grossed over $34 million worldwide on a $2 million budget.
- Cinematic Feat: Renowned for a continuous five-minute-long shot in a football stadium.
- Origin: An Argentine-Spanish co-production.
Plot Overview: A Lifelong Pursuit
The narrative unfolds across several decades, utilizing a nonlinear structure to connect the past and present. In June 1974, Benjamín Espósito investigates the murder of Liliana Colotto. He makes a solemn promise to her husband, Ricardo Morales, to find the killer and ensure a life sentence.
Assisted by his alcoholic partner Pablo Sandoval and Chief Irene Menéndez-Hastings, Espósito battles a corrupt system. While a rival agent, Romano, attempts to close the case by torturing innocent immigrants for false confessions, Espósito and Sandoval follow a trail of clues that leads them to the Racing Football Club. However, the investigation takes a tragic turn when Sandoval is murdered, leading Espósito to go into hiding for ten years.
By 1999, Espósito seeks closure and visits Ricardo Morales, who lives in isolation. In a shocking revelation, Espósito discovers that Morales has taken the law into his own hands. Having kept the killer, Isidoro Gómez, imprisoned in a private cell for 25 years, Morales has fulfilled Espósito's original promise of a "life sentence" in the most literal and harrowing way possible.
Historical and Political Context
The film is deeply rooted in the socio-political climate of Argentina, specifically contrasting the years 1975 and 1999. The 1970s setting captures the prelude to the Dirty War (1976–1983), a period of state-sponsored terrorism under a military junta. During this time, the Argentine Anticommunist Alliance (Triple A) and other death squads targeted activists, intellectuals, and students.
The character of Isidoro Gómez exemplifies the impunity of this era; his role in the government's security detail protected him from legal consequences. The film also addresses the 1980s "amnesty laws"—the Full Stop and Due Obedience laws—which blocked the investigation of human rights abuses. These laws explain why Morales felt forced to create his own prison, as the official penal system would have likely punished the victim rather than the perpetrator.
Production and Critical Reception
The film is the fourth collaboration between director Juan José Campanella and actor Ricardo Darín. It was praised for its screenplay, thematic depth, and technical execution. Critics particularly highlighted the mesmerizing performances and the film's ability to blend a personal tragedy with national history.
With an 89% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 80 on Metacritic, the film is regarded as one of the finest Spanish-language films of the 21st century. It was ranked No. 91 by the BBC's 100 Greatest Films of the 21st Century.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | August 13, 2009 (Argentina) |
| Running Time | 128 minutes |
| Budget / Box Office | $2 million / $34 million |
| Key Awards | Academy Award (Best Foreign Language Film), Goya Award |
| Based On | La pregunta de sus ojos by Eduardo Sacheri |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the football stadium scene?
The scene is highly acclaimed for its technical brilliance, featuring a continuous five-minute-long shot that moves through a crowded stadium during a match, adding to the film's immersive and tense atmosphere.
How does the film relate to the 'Dirty War' in Argentina?
The film uses the character of Isidoro Gómez to show how state-sponsored terrorism and political protection allowed criminals to escape justice during the military dictatorship and the subsequent era of amnesty laws.
Was there an American version of the movie?
Yes, a 2015 remake directed by Billy Ray starred Julia Roberts and Nicole Kidman. While the performances were praised, critics generally found it inferior to the original Argentine version.
What happened to the 'amnesty laws' mentioned in the film?
In 2003, under President Nestor Kirchner, the Full Stop and Due Obedience laws were declared null and void, allowing the judiciary to finally prosecute those responsible for state-sponsored terrorism between 1975 and 1983.
Who are the main characters in the film?
The main characters are Benjamín Espósito (a judiciary agent), Irene Menéndez-Hastings (a judge), Ricardo Morales (the victim's husband), and Pablo Sandoval (Espósito's partner).