In the opening scene, a woman named Ángela (Ana Torrent) is travelling by train when an unexpected announcement is made- that a passenger has taken their own life by jumping onto the train tracks. Ángela and the other passengers are instructed to exit the train and remain calm, with a strict recommendation to avoid the area where the tragedy occurred. As Ángela passes by, her curiosity about the aftermath compels her to take a glimpse, but she is interrupted and forced to continue her way.
From the film’s opening, we learn that Ángela is a student at the School of Mass Communication. She is working on a new thesis about audiovisual violence that has been deemed too graphic for television. Ángela’s research focuses on various formats, images, and footage related to this subject. As her thesis progresses, Ángela learns about a fellow student named Chema (Fele Martínez), who is well-informed about violence and pornographic films. When Angela meets him, he shows her footage of violence that has been recorded and incorporated into motion pictures. Although the experience is unsettling, she perseveres with her research.
However, the significance of Ángela’s thesis escalates when she discovers a videotape that contains footage of an actual murder. Shockingly, Ángela recognises the victim in the tape as a former student who mysteriously disappeared two years prior. As a result, her academic project has transformed into a personal murder investigation. Chema reviews the footage and confirms its authenticity, leaving the critical question: Who is the unknown killer in the video?
The film Thesis is a thriller filled with numerous twists and surprises, especially in the third and final act. The main character conducts personal investigations while working on her thesis on gruesome violence, all of which adds to the horror elements of the film. It was co-written and directed by Alejandro Amenábar, who is also known for his other works, including The Others (2001) and Open Your Eyes (1997).
As a film, there is so much to enjoy. Firstly, the mystery is captivating. Upon your first viewing, I guarantee that you will make multiple guesses, and when you think you know the outcome, the film will surprise you again. This mystery keeps the story exciting and engaging. I also appreciated the film’s concept and premise. Even when something—perhaps a film—becomes too violent or scary, why do we, as viewers, have the urge to experience it for ourselves? It’s a compelling question that resonates, especially if you love all things movies.
The characters in the film are unique and significantly different from one another, especially Ángela and Chema. Ángela often comes across as focused and cautious, but it’s clear that she is well-educated. In contrast, Chema’s knowledge differs from Ángela’s, and his personality is more straightforward. He often makes direct and blunt comments to those he interacts with. I found his presence comedic and uplifting in a film with a heavy storyline. While I enjoyed the movie, it did feel a bit too long, particularly in the third act. However, the finale was enriching, and I just wished it arrived quicker without dragging.
Overall, for lovers of murder mysteries and thrillers, Thesis is a must-watch. Experiencing this film for the first time was a terrific experience. There’s a brilliant setup and a great mystery in motion, and I must confess that I found myself repeatedly guessing the film’s reveals. Lead characters are enjoyable, and all differ from one another. The pacing, for the most part, is excellent, but sadly, a significant drag takes place in the third act. However, again, its finale goes off with a big bang.
Thesis (1996) is now available on 4K UHD Blu-ray thanks to Umbrella Entertainment!
8.1/10
16th November 2024
Written by Peter Walkden
Published: 16th November 2024
Written by: Peter Walkden
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