"Aftershock" is a 2012 disaster-horror film that delves into the harrowing experiences of tourists in Chile after a devastating earthquake. Directed by Nicolás López and co-written by López, Eli Roth, and Guillermo Amoedo, the movie offers a thrilling blend of real-life disaster scenarios and horror elements. Released on September 12, 2012, the film stars Eli Roth, Ariel Levy, and Nicolás Martínez among others.
Plot Summary:
Set against the vibrant nightlife of Chile, a group of travelers, including Gringo (Eli Roth), Ariel (Ariel Levy), and Pollo (Nicolás Martínez), set out to explore and enjoy their vacation.
However, their fun-filled escapade takes a dark turn when a massive earthquake strikes, causing unprecedented destruction. As the city crumbles around them, the group faces not only the immediate dangers of the quake but also the ensuing chaos.
With society's collapse, the travelers must navigate a world where the primal instincts of humanity are laid bare, and survival becomes the only priority. The film captures the raw emotions and challenges faced by the group as they grapple with nature's fury and the darker side of humanity.
Cast and Characters:
- Eli Roth as Gringo: An American tourist looking for a good time in Chile but finds himself in the midst of a disaster.
- Ariel Levy as Ariel: A local who is familiar with the city's landscape and becomes an essential guide for the group during the catastrophe.
- Nicolás Martínez as Pollo: Ariel's friend and a fellow traveler, Pollo's light-hearted nature provides some relief amidst the tension.
- Andrea Osvárt as Monica: A Hungarian traveler who joins the group and showcases resilience in the face of adversity.
- Lorenza Izzo as Kylie: A party-goer who becomes an integral part of the group's survival journey.
Where to Stream
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Production Details:
"Aftershock" was primarily filmed in Chile, leveraging the country's diverse landscapes to create an authentic backdrop for the disaster narrative. Directed by Nicolás López, the film was a collaborative effort with Eli Roth, who not only co-wrote the script but also played a pivotal role on-screen.
The movie's production aimed to blend real-life disaster scenarios with elements of horror, creating a unique genre blend that sets it apart from traditional disaster films.
The earthquake sequences were meticulously crafted using a combination of practical effects and CGI to ensure realism and intensity. The film's sound design was particularly crucial in immersing the audience in the terrifying aftermath of the quake.
Reception and Awards:
Upon its release, "Aftershock" garnered mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its unique blend of disaster and horror genres, others felt that the narrative could have been more nuanced.
The film's portrayal of the raw human instincts in the face of disaster was both lauded and criticized. On the box office front, "Aftershock" had a modest performance, appealing primarily to fans of the horror genre.
While the movie didn't bag major awards, its technical aspects, especially the sound design and visual effects, received acknowledgment in various film festivals.
Trivia and Behind-the-Scenes:
- The idea for "Aftershock" was inspired by director Nicolás López's own experiences during the 2010 Chile earthquake. Many of the film's sequences are based on real-life incidents that occurred in the aftermath of the quake.
- Eli Roth, known for his work in the horror genre, was instrumental in adding the horror elements to the film. His collaboration with López led to a unique blend of genres that set the movie apart.
- The film's cast underwent rigorous training to portray the physical and emotional challenges of their characters authentically. This included simulated earthquake drills and survival training.
- Some of the film's most intense scenes were shot using handheld cameras to give a raw and immediate feel to the disaster sequences.
"Aftershock" remains a testament to the unpredictable nature of life and the human spirit's resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity. Combining the terror of natural disasters with the horror of human behavior, the film offers a gripping and thought-provoking cinematic experience.