Ariel Winograd the creator of "Headcheese" takes a trip back to his childhood years to the place where he spent most of his summers. The country club at the center of the story is patronized mainly by wealthy Jews who came out to this enclave to socialize and spend their leisure time away from the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires, as in most big cities around the world.
He alter ego is Ariel, the boy whose nickname lends itself to the title of the film. Ariel's memories capture all the things that happened to him at an early age. He sees the world around him and wonders what does it all mean. As a boy he watches some of his peers being cruel to others, as well as become fascinated by sex that is all around him.
The film has some good moments, but as memory films go, it is only a tamed view at that society. Todd Solondz, the American director who has delved into Jewish family situations, comes to mind, but Mr. Winograd's views are not as acerbic as his counterpart. There are appearances by Daniel Burman, Federico Luppi, Martin Pyroyansky, the wonderful Ines Efron, and other veteran actors. Sebastian Montagna plays the title role with conviction.
He alter ego is Ariel, the boy whose nickname lends itself to the title of the film. Ariel's memories capture all the things that happened to him at an early age. He sees the world around him and wonders what does it all mean. As a boy he watches some of his peers being cruel to others, as well as become fascinated by sex that is all around him.
The film has some good moments, but as memory films go, it is only a tamed view at that society. Todd Solondz, the American director who has delved into Jewish family situations, comes to mind, but Mr. Winograd's views are not as acerbic as his counterpart. There are appearances by Daniel Burman, Federico Luppi, Martin Pyroyansky, the wonderful Ines Efron, and other veteran actors. Sebastian Montagna plays the title role with conviction.