The chilling account of survival in the Andes mountains after a catastrophic plane crash in 1972 unfolds in the recent film “Society of the Snow,” now available for streaming on Netflix. This poignant narrative recounts the harrowing experiences of 16 men, mostly members of a Uruguayan rugby team who endured 72 days before their rescue, resorting to cannibalism to stay alive. While this true story has already been brought to life in the 1993 film “Alive,” “Society of the Snow” takes a different approach to the gripping tale, offering a fresh perspective on the harrowing events.
When I first watched “Alive” in theatres as a 10-year-old, I was captivated by the terrifying plane crash and the ghastly scenes of cannibalism. However, upon rewatching the film, I realized that it had been heavily romanticized and sentimentalized. The story had been presented in a more commercial, Americanized manner, and lost some of its authenticity in translation. In contrast, “Society of the Snow” aims to rectify these issues by featuring a cast of Uruguayan and Argentinian actors and presenting the entire film in Spanish. The director, J.A. Bayona, known for his work on “Jurassic World” and “The Impossible,” sought to convey the authenticity of the survivors’ ordeal.
The film effectively immerses the audience in the freezing conditions that the survivors endured, evoking a sense of hopelessness and despair. The crash scene, while less dramatic than in “Alive,” powerfully depicts the traumatic experience faced by the victims. “Society of the Snow” is a brutal, yet captivating film that portrays the agonizing struggle of the survivors, paying respectful tribute to those who perished in the tragic event.
Although “Society of the Snow” may be more relatable to modern audiences due to its unflinching portrayal of the survivors’ hardships, “Alive” succeeds in providing a more in-depth exploration of the characters. The latter film follows the compelling journey of Nando Parrado and Roberto Canessa, two men who embarked on a perilous trek across treacherous mountain terrain to seek help, establishing them as clear heroes from the outset. However, “Society of the Snow” introduces these characters later on and keeps their identities somewhat ambiguous, longing for more individual depth.
Despite the challenging nature of capturing the horrific reality of the Andes disaster, “Society of the Snow” effectively conveys the message of perseverance and hope. The film serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring will to survive against insurmountable odds. It leaves a lasting impression, provoking contemplation on the fragility of life and the indomitable strength of the human resolve, while also celebrating the triumph of those who managed to defy fate.
The retelling of this compelling and heart-rending story encapsulates the spirit of courage, loss, and eventual salvation, leaving viewers with a profound sense of empathy and admiration for the survivors. “Society of the Snow” is a poignant, affecting film that conveys the gamut of emotions experienced by those who endured the unfathomable disaster. As the credits roll, it is impossible not to be moved by the sheer resilience and unwavering determination displayed by the survivors in the face of overwhelming adversity.
So, the next time you board a plane and soar over the majestic mountains, take a moment to reflect on the incredible true story of the Andes survivors, and be grateful for the enduring human spirit that prevails in the darkest of times.
