Argentina has a rich cinematic tradition, with a long history of producing films that have gained international acclaim. Argentine movies are known for their strong storytelling, innovative cinematography, and socially and politically relevant themes.
The following are some of the best Argentine movies that have garnered critical and popular acclaim both within and outside Argentina:
The Secret in Their Eyes (2009) – directed by Juan José Campanella, this crime thriller won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2010.
La Historia Oficial (1985) – directed by Luis Puenzo, this drama explores the impact of the Argentine dictatorship of the 1970s and 1980s on an upper-class family.
Wild Tales (2014) – directed by Damián Szifron, this dark comedy is an anthology of six short stories that satirize contemporary Argentine society.
The Official Story (1985) – directed by Luis Puenzo, this drama won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1986 and examines the human cost of the Argentine dictatorship.
Nueve Reinas (2000) – directed by Fabián Bielinsky, this crime thriller follows two con artists as they attempt to pull off a high-stakes scam in Buenos Aires.
Best Argentine Movies
These are just a few examples of the best Argentine movies that have been recognized for their artistic merit and cultural significance. Argentine cinema continues to be a vibrant and dynamic force in the world of film.
1. Nine Queens (2000)
“Nine Queens” (original title: “Nueve Reinas”) is a 2000 Argentine crime thriller movie directed by Fabián Bielinsky. The movie follows the story of two con artists, Juan and Marcos (played by Gastón Pauls and Ricardo Darín, respectively), who team up to pull off a scam involving a rare set of counterfeit stamps, known as the “Nine Queens.”
The movie is known for its intricate plot, clever twists, and realistic portrayal of the world of con artists and swindlers. The film explores themes of trust, loyalty, and deception, and features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and agendas.
“Nine Queens” was a critical and commercial success in Argentina and has gained a following internationally. The movie has been praised for its tight screenplay, excellent performances, and stylish direction. It has also been remade in several languages, including English, Hindi, and Korean.
- Factory sealed DVD
- Ricardo Darin, Gaston Pauls, Leticia Bredice (Actors)
- Fabian Bielinsky (Director) - Cecilia Bossi (Producer)
- English, French (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
2. The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)
“The Secret in Their Eyes” is a 2009 Argentine-Spanish drama film directed by Juan Jose Campanella. The film is based on the novel “La pregunta de sus ojos” by Eduardo Sacheri and follows the story of a retired judiciary employee named Benjamin Esposito, who decides to write a novel about a case that he investigated twenty-five years earlier. The case involved the brutal rape and murder of a young woman, and the film explores themes of justice, love, and memory.
The film features a talented cast of actors, including Ricardo Darin, Soledad Villamil, and Guillermo Francella, and has a gripping narrative style that combines elements of crime drama and romance. “The Secret in Their Eyes” was highly acclaimed by audiences and critics alike and won several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2010.
The film is a
![The Secret in Their Eyes [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51LfRh4HGWL.jpg)
- Ricardo Darín, Soledad Villamil (Actors)
- Juan José Campanella (Director) - Juan José Campanella (Writer) - Juan José Campanella (Producer)
- French, English (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
3. Waiting for the Hearse (1985)
“Waiting for the Hearse” is a 1985 Argentine comedy film directed by Alejandro Doria. The film tells the story of an eccentric family who reunites for the birthday of their mother, the overbearing and manipulative “Mamá Cora”. As the family members bicker and squabble over Mamá Cora’s affections and inheritance, they become embroiled in a series of absurd and hilarious mishaps.
The film is known for its clever writing and witty dialogue, as well as its sharp satire of Argentine society and family dynamics. The ensemble cast, which includes notable Argentine actors such as Antonio Gasalla and Luis Brandoni, delivers strong performances and brings the eccentric characters to life.
“Waiting for the Hearse” has become a classic of Argentine cinema and a favorite among audiences for its hilarious and relatable portrayal of family dysfunction. The film’s themes of greed, jealousy, and sibling rivalry are universal, and its humor transcends cultural barriers. It is a must-watch for fans of comedy and anyone who has ever had a complicated relationship with their family.
![Waiting for the Hearse ( Esperando la carroza ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, NTSC, Reg.4 Import - Argentina ]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31lA7mqWIuL.jpg)
- Darío Grandinetti, Luis Brandoni, China Zorrilla (Actors)
- Alejandro Doria (Director) - Waiting for the Hearse ( Esperando la carroza ) (Producer)
- English (Subtitle)
- Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)
4. The Official Story (1985)
“The Official Story” is a 1985 Argentine drama film directed by Luis Puenzo. The film follows Alicia, a well-to-do woman in Buenos Aires who begins to question her life and beliefs after discovering that her adopted daughter may have been taken from a political prisoner who was killed during the Dirty War, a period of state terrorism in Argentina from 1976 to 1983.
The film explores the moral and political dilemmas faced by those who lived through the Dirty War and its aftermath, as well as the complicity of the Argentine middle class in the atrocities committed by the military government. It is a powerful and deeply affecting work that examines the struggle for truth and justice in the face of authoritarianism and repression.
“The Official Story” was widely acclaimed upon its release, and it went on to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1986. The film was praised for its honest and unflinching portrayal of a dark period in Argentine history, as well as its powerful performances and expert direction. It is regarded as a masterpiece of Latin American cinema and an essential work for anyone interested in the history and politics of the region.
![The Official Story [1985] [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51oJqTwWLIL.jpg)
- The Official Story (1985) ( La Historia oficial ) ( The Official History )
- The Official Story (1985)
- La Historia oficial
- The Official History
- Hector Alterio, Norma Aleandro, Chunchuna Villafañe (Actors)
5. Rosaura a las 10 (1958)
Rosaura a las 10″ is a 1958 Argentine drama film directed by Mario Soffici and based on the novel of the same name by Marco Denevi. The film tells the story of a middle-aged man named Enrique Hubermann, who becomes obsessed with a young woman named Rosaura, whom he meets by chance at a train station.
As Hubermann tries to unravel the mystery surrounding Rosaura’s identity and past, he begins to confront his own repressed desires and dark secrets. The film explores themes such as identity, memory, and the complexities of human relationships.
“Rosaura a las 10” is considered a classic of Argentine cinema and is noted for its innovative storytelling techniques, including the use of flashbacks and dream sequences. The film also features strong performances by leading actors such as Carlos Carella and Elsa Daniel, and is often cited as one of the best Argentine films of all time.
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Marco Denevi (Author)
- Spanish (Publication Language)
- 228 Pages - 08/01/1993 (Publication Date) - Colihue/Argentina (Publisher)
6. The Clan (2015)
“The Clan” (original title: “El Clan”) is a 2015 Argentine crime drama movie directed by Pablo Trapero. The film is based on the true story of the Puccio family, who were involved in the kidnapping and murder of several people in Argentina during the 1980s.
The movie follows the story of the Puccio family and their criminal activities, which were carried out with the help of their friends and neighbors. The film explores themes of family, loyalty, and corruption, and offers a disturbing portrait of a family that operates outside the law.
“The Clan” was a critical and commercial success in Argentina and has been praised for its powerful performances, gripping storytelling, and sharp direction. The movie was also selected as the Argentine entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 88th Academy Awards.
7. The House of the Angel (1957)
“The House of the Angel” is a 1957 Argentine drama film directed by Leopoldo Torre Nilsson. The film is based on a novel by the Argentine writer Beatriz Guido and tells the story of a young woman named Alejandra who becomes a servant in a wealthy household in Buenos Aires. Alejandra is forced to navigate the complex social dynamics of the household, which is filled with secrets and hidden desires.
The film features a talented cast of actors, including Elsa Daniel, Lautaro Murua, and Berta Ortegosa, and has a visual style that combines elements of film noir with melodrama. “The House of the Angel” was highly acclaimed by audiences and critics alike and is considered a classic of Argentine cinema.
The film is a poignant exploration of class, gender, and power dynamics in Argentine society, and offers a powerful critique of the patriarchal structures that govern it. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Argentine cinema and the social and political issues that have shaped it.
- Hardcover Book
- Guido, Beatriz. (Text) MacLean, Joan Coyne. (Trans. ) (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 04/27/2024 (Publication Date) - McGraw-Hill Book Company, Inc. (Publisher)
8. Wild Tales (2014)
“Wild Tales” is a 2014 Argentine-Spanish black comedy anthology film directed by Damián Szifron. The film consists of six standalone short stories that share a common theme of revenge and the dark side of human nature.
Each segment of the film features a different set of characters and explores a different aspect of revenge, ranging from the mundane to the extreme. The stories are all set in Argentina, and they touch on issues such as class tensions, corruption, and the justice system.
The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving widespread acclaim for its dark humor, sharp writing, and strong performances from its ensemble cast, which includes Ricardo Darín, Érica Rivas, and Leonardo Sbaraglia. “Wild Tales” was nominated for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 87th Academy Awards, and it won numerous awards at international film festivals.
“Wild Tales” is a must-watch for fans of black comedy and those interested in exploring the darker side of human nature. The film’s exploration of the themes of revenge and justice, as well as its clever and entertaining storytelling, make it a standout in the world of international cinema.
![Wild Tales /DVD [2014]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51j9YKpyJbL.jpg)
- German, Spanish (Subtitles)
- German (Publication Language)
9. Red Bear (2002)
“Red Bear” (original title: “Oso Rojo”) is a 2002 Argentine drama film directed by Israel Adrián Caetano. The film tells the story of a former leftist guerrilla named Bear, who has just been released from prison after serving 20 years for his involvement in a politically motivated crime. The film follows Bear as he tries to readjust to life outside of prison and reconnect with his daughter, who he has not seen since she was a child.
“Red Bear” explores themes of identity, memory, and trauma, as well as the challenges faced by former political prisoners as they try to reintegrate into society. The film is known for its stark and gritty style, which captures the harsh realities of life in modern-day Buenos Aires.
“Red Bear” was well-received upon its release, with critics praising the film for its raw and powerful portrayal of a difficult subject. The film won several awards, including the Best Director award at the San Sebastian International Film Festival, and it has since become a cult classic of Argentine cinema.
- Julio Chávez, Soledad Villamil (Actor)
- English (Subtitle)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
10. Son of the Bride (2001)
“Son of the Bride” (El hijo de la novia) is a 2001 Argentine comedy-drama film directed by Juan José Campanella. The film tells the story of Rafael Belvedere, a middle-aged man who is struggling to balance the demands of his job and his family life.
When his father, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, expresses a desire to marry his long-lost love, Rafael is forced to confront his own priorities and re-evaluate his relationships with his family and friends.
“Son of the Bride” received critical acclaim and was a commercial success in Argentina and internationally. The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2002 and won numerous awards, including the Goya Award for Best Spanish Language Foreign Film.
The film is known for its poignant and witty portrayal of the complexities of family life and its exploration of themes such as love, aging, and the search for meaning and fulfillment in life.
![Son of the Bride [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51JR8AHXTTL.jpg)
- Norma Aleandro, Ricardo Darin, Hector Alterio (Actors)
- Juan Campanella (Director) - Pablo Bossi (Producer)
- English, French (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
11. On Probation (2005)
“On Probation” (original title: “En la Puta Vida”) is a 2005 Argentine-Spanish comedy-drama movie directed by Beatriz Flores Silva. The film follows the story of Miguel (played by Antonella Costa), a young woman who moves from Uruguay to Argentina in search of a better life.
The movie explores the themes of poverty, immigration, and the struggles faced by people living on the margins of society. Miguel meets a group of characters who are also struggling to make ends meet, and together they form a makeshift family of sorts.
“On Probation” is known for its naturalistic style, strong performances, and its ability to blend humor with drama. The film has been praised for its honest portrayal of the lives of people living in poverty and its commentary on social and economic inequality in Argentina.
![On Probation (2005) ( Tiempo de valientes ) [ Blu-Ray, Reg.A/B/C Import - Spain ]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51bGCgj2zdL.jpg)
- On Probation (2005) ( Tiempo de valientes )
- On Probation (2005)
- Tiempo de valientes
- Martín Adjemián, Ernesto Claudio, Óscar Ferreiro (Actors)
- Damián Szifron (Director) - On Probation (2005) ( Tiempo de valientes ) (Producer)
12. The Aura (2005)
“The Aura” is a 2005 Argentine crime thriller film directed by Fabián Bielinsky. The film follows a shy taxidermist named Esteban Espinosa, who is obsessed with planning the perfect crime. After a chance encounter with a fellow hunter, Espinosa becomes embroiled in a dangerous heist in the Patagonian wilderness.
The film features a talented cast of actors, including Ricardo Darín, Dolores Fonzi, and Pablo Cedrón, and has a moody, atmospheric visual style that captures the desolate beauty of the Patagonian landscape. “The Aura” was highly acclaimed by audiences and critics alike and won several awards, including the Silver Condor for Best Film in 2006.
The film is a
![The Aura [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41omUdCIJ4L.jpg)
- Ricardo Darn, Manuel Rodal, Dolores Fonzi (Actors)
- Fabin Bielinsky (Director) - Fabin Bielinsky (Writer)
- English, Spanish (Subtitles)
- Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)
13. The Little Polish (2003)
“Man Facing Southeast” (original title: “Hombre mirando al sudeste”) is a 1986 Argentine drama film directed by Eliseo Subiela. The film tells the story of a mysterious man named Rantes who is admitted to a mental institution in Buenos Aires. Rantes claims to be an extraterrestrial who has come to Earth to observe human behavior, and he uses his supposed powers to influence the other patients and staff at the institution.
“Man Facing Southeast” explores themes of sanity, spirituality, and the human condition, as well as the impact of social norms and institutions on individual identity. The film is known for its dreamlike and surreal style, which blurs the line between reality and fantasy.
“Man Facing Southeast” was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it went on to become one of the most celebrated Argentine films of all time. The film was praised for its imaginative storytelling, inventive visual style, and deeply philosophical themes, and it has since inspired numerous remakes and adaptations in other countries.
![Little Polish ( El Polaquito ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.0 Import - Spain ]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51T1HIfRCyL.jpg)
- Little Polish ( El Polaquito )
- Little Polish
- El Polaquito
- Abel Ayala, Marina Glezer, Fernando Roa (Actors)
- Juan Carlos Desanzo (Director) - Little Polish ( El Polaquito ) (Producer)
14. Man Facing Southeast (1986)
“Chinese Take-Out” (Un cuento chino) is a 2011 Argentine-Spanish comedy-drama film directed by Sebastián Borensztein. The film tells the story of a grumpy and reclusive hardware store owner named Roberto, who lives in Buenos Aires.
One day, he finds a Chinese man named Jun wandering on the street and takes him in. Despite not speaking the same language, Roberto and Jun develop a unique and heartwarming friendship as they try to navigate the challenges of cultural and linguistic barriers.
The film was a critical and commercial success in Argentina and received positive reviews internationally. It won numerous awards, including the Goya Award for Best Spanish Language Foreign Film and the Best Latin American Film at the Gijón International Film Festival.
“Chinese Take-Out” is known for its warm and humorous portrayal of the unlikely friendship between two people from vastly different backgrounds, and for its exploration of themes such as human connection, compassion, and the beauty of cultural diversity.
- Hugo Soto (Actor)
- Eliseo Subiela (Director)
- English (Subtitle)
- English (Publication Language)
- Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
15. Chinese Take-Out (2011)
“The Lion’s Share” (original title: “Le Coup de Sirocco”) is a 1978 French comedy-drama movie directed by Alexandre Arcady. The film is set in 1942 in Algeria, during the French occupation of the country.
The movie follows the story of an Algerian Jewish family and their interactions with a French soldier who has been stationed in their neighborhood. The film explores themes of identity, cultural differences, and the impact of colonialism on the lives of ordinary people.
“The Lion’s Share” is known for its poignant portrayal of life under colonialism and for its sensitive treatment of the complex relationships between different cultural groups. The movie has been praised for its strong performances and its ability to balance humor with more serious themes. It has also been recognized with several awards and nominations at international film festivals.
![Chinese Take-Away [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51jmSCPa3VL.jpg)
- Ricardo Darin, Muriel Santa Ana, Ignacio Huang (Actors)
- Sebastián Borensztein (Director) - Sebastián Borensztein (Writer) - Pablo Bossi (Producer)
- Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
3 Characteristics of Argentine Movies
Social and Political Commentary: Argentine cinema has a strong tradition of exploring social and political issues. Films often address topics such as poverty, inequality, and human rights abuses. Many Argentine filmmakers use their art as a way to make social and political commentary, and to shed light on issues that are often ignored or overlooked.
Experimental and Avant-Garde: Argentine cinema is also known for its experimental and avant-garde tendencies. Filmmakers often push the boundaries of traditional narrative techniques and storytelling. This has led to the emergence of a number of unique and innovative films, which have gained international recognition.
Tackling Taboo Subjects: Argentine cinema is unafraid to tackle taboo subjects, such as sexuality, violence, and corruption. Films often feature complex characters and explore the darker aspects of human nature. This has led to the emergence of a number of powerful and thought-provoking films, which have challenged traditional norms and conventions.
3 Reasons To Watch Argentine Movies
Unique storytelling: Argentine movies often feature unconventional and imaginative storytelling, which can be a refreshing change of pace from more formulaic Hollywood films. Many Argentine filmmakers have a reputation for exploring complex themes and ideas in their work, and their films often challenge audiences to think deeply about issues such as identity, politics, and society.
Strong cinematic tradition: Argentina has a long and rich history of cinema, dating back to the early 20th century. Argentine filmmakers have won numerous international awards, and the country’s cinema has been celebrated for its innovative and influential contributions to world cinema.
Diverse range of genres: Argentine cinema offers a wide variety of genres and styles, from gritty crime dramas to surrealistic fantasies to socially conscious documentaries. Whatever your cinematic tastes may be, there is likely an Argentine film out there that will appeal to you. Argentine cinema also provides a unique window into the country’s culture and history, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating South American nation.
Best Argentine Movies – Wrap Up
Argentina has a rich and vibrant film industry that has produced many acclaimed and influential movies over the years. From classic films of the Golden Age of Argentine cinema to contemporary indie films, there is something for everyone in Argentine cinema.
Some of the most notable Argentine films include “The Official Story” (1985), which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, “Wild Tales” (2014), which was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, and “La Ciénaga” (2001), which is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Argentine cinema.
Other noteworthy Argentine films include “The Secret in Their Eyes” (2009), “The Motorcycle Diaries” (2004), “Nine Queens” (2000), and “The Clan” (2015).
Overall, Argentine cinema is known for its innovative storytelling, strong character development, and insightful commentary on social and political issues. Its unique blend of Latin American and European influences has made it a major force in the global film industry, and it continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
