Parents' Guide to

Argentina, 1985

By Tom Cassidy, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Inspiring Argentine historical drama has smoking, language.

Movie R 2022 140 minutes
Argentina, 1985 movie poster: Two Argentinian men talk intently in court

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

  • Argentina, 1985: A middle-aged man poses for a photograph with his legal team of young people
  • Argentina, 1985: Two Argentinian men in court, one middle-aged and one younger. Both are prosecutors. The older man points accusingly
  • Argentina, 1985: An Argentinian woman stands in court giving evidence during a trial

Community Reviews

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age 14+

Based on 1 parent review

doctora
doctora Parent of 6-year-old
April 11, 2023
age 14+

A comical and gripping courtroom drama about a tough topic of international importance.

I did NOT expect this film to be a comedy. I have seen my fair share of films about Latin American military authoritative regimes and their aftermath and the Argentinean atrocities are especially noteworthy in their scope and in the legacy upheld by the Madres de la Plaza de mayo. And although there have been instances of Black comedy in different films, this film was by far the funniest and that is a high compliment. The film does not in any moment sacrifice its connection to the traumatic subject matter that has made up the socio-cultural and political imaginary of Argentina since the military regime fell after the disastrous Maldives war. A courtroom drama that brings into sharp focus how fascism was invited in, operated and was left unchecked and the deadly consequences it had and how Argentina began to claw itself out of the forced disappearances of too many of its population. This film is gripping and prescient without re-harming nor making trauma porn. A must-see film that feels like a documentary of a nation-state's emotional roller coaster.
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What's the Story?

ARGENTINA, 1985, tells the true story of the trial of members of the country's military dictatorship regime. Prosecutors Julio Strassera (Ricardo Darin) and Luis Moreno Ocampo (Peter Lanzani) are tasked with convicting the leaders of Argentina's toppled fascist regime with crimes against humanity. With a young team, they must stave off death threats and political opposition to deliver justice for the victims.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

Based on a powerful true story, this Argentine political drama has a strong inspirational message and delivers a stark warning against fascism. Argentina, 1985 is also a gripping thriller with well-written characters and excellent performances. A key moment shifts the movie from a steady drama to a vital and relevant thriller. This moment isn't one of the many death threats prosecutor Strassera receives for trying to bring the commanders of a fascist dictatorship to justice. It's a pop song. Until then, the movie is mostly middle-aged men talking in dark wood paneled rooms. When the distinctly 1980s tune plays it brings a whole new focus and realization that this happened in our very recent history. While the film doesn't shy away from Argentina's harrowing past, it's also hopeful, while perhaps also acting as a warning to future generations.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the various character strengths shown in Argentina, 1985. What examples of courage, teamwork, communication, and perseverance can you give from the movie? Why are these such important traits to have?

  • Discuss the strong language used. What did it contribute to the movie?

  • How was smoking depicted in the film? Do you think attitudes to smoking have changed since when the movie was set? Why, or why why not?

  • What did you know about Argentina's political history before you watched the movie? How did it compare to your own country? Why is it important to reflect on the past?

Movie Details

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