Society of the Snow is a 2023 drama film directed by J.A. Bayona, based on the true story of a Uruguayan rugby team's experience in 1972 after their plane crashed in the Andes Mountains. The film tells the story of 16 survivors who managed to stay alive in one of the world's harshest environments for roughly two months.
The film is based on the novel "Society of the Snow: The Definitive Account of the World’s Greatest Survival Story" by Pablo Vierci, which draws on exclusive interviews from survivors of the accident. The film stands out as the most accurate and earnest account of the event, giving ample time to every step of the survivors' journey.
The film was partly shot in the same location where the real plane crashed, and it benefits from the impeccable disaster movie directing of J.A. Bayona, as well as modern filming techniques. The film plunges the viewer into the sub-zero mountain environment without mercy, capturing the utter silence and desolate nature of the Andes.
The film also benefited from a cast of relatively unknown actors, which really enhanced the suspension of disbelief. The narration for most of the film centers around Numa Tarcotti, one of the rugby players who tragically passed away toward the end of the two months.
The film's climax is a heart-wrenching moment that is sure to bring tears to your eyes, as Nando Perrado (played by Felipe González Otaño) finally reaches civilization after a grueling journey. The film's final minutes show the absolute mastery of the film's emotional impact, as the last survivors are reunited with their families.
Sources:
