The Official Story detailed a period when Argentina's military took back control and punished those who participated in communist militia’s and communistic ideas. Around 11,000 people, from 1978-1983, disappeared for actions they were a part of during the late 1960's and early 1970's.
Alicia's husband was friends with "The General", who was no doubt a big part of the reason why they adopted Gaby. We never really find this out in the movie; I actually did a little research to help fill in the gaps that the movie leaves. By the end, Alicia knows for sure, that her husband was part of the new military government and their supporters. Through the movie, Alicia becomes increasingly paranoid that her adopted baby belongs to one of the families accused and punished for their part in the movement. So much so, that it teats her up inside, this is evident by the glazed over stares and the bouts of emotional breakdown. She can no longer trust her husband, who, by the end, is a mess himself. The scene where he beat her, hitting her head against the door frame, then smashing her fingers in the door jam, was hard to watch. You could see that he was ready to hit her, but I did not see the rest of that incident coming.
Overall, this was a powerful movie that depicted how people can be blinded by acts that are seemingly right in their face. The husband makes this point to Alicia, as she keeps prodding him to reveal more info. That's pretty much like living with someone who is living a double life; you only see what that person wants you to see.
Chris Pappas
Hi Chris
ReplyDeleteAs I watched this movie, I kept wondering what role “The General” would play in the movie. I think Roberto truly loved his wife but his desire for money and power got him involved in the military take over as his friendship grew with “The General.” This friendship was a big reason they were able to “obtain Gaby.” Alicia was certainly blind sided by her husband’s activities, as you said, he was living a double life. As Alicia realized what happened during the military take over, she was devastated. Her love for her daughter and the concern for the people who lost loved ones was the driving force for her to find out the answers. I, also, found the brutal attack from Roberto at the end of the movie unexpected and hard to watch. I find myself hoping that Alicia and Gaby are gone for good as she becomes friends with Gaby’s grandmother, but on the other hand I fear for Alicia’s safety if she leaves Roberto.
Joan Vater