Artemio Narro Aguilar's New Film Exposes the Brutal Side of Contemporary Art
A new film by Mexican director Artemio Narro Aguilar has premiered at the 2023 International Film Festival Rotterdam. Art Is Dark and Full of Horrors dives into the cutthroat world of contemporary art, following a powerful conceptual artist whose downfall sparks chaos. José María de Tavira stars as the central figure, surrounded by ambition, deception, and high-stakes scheming. The story unfolds over a single turbulent week in Mexico City’s art scene. De Tavira plays an influential artist whose dominance begins to crumble, setting off a scramble among rivals and opportunists. The film blends personal victories with backroom deals and lavish, pretentious parties, exposing the industry’s darker side.
Narro Aguilar, known for his 2019 feature *ColoZio*, describes the project as a provocative mix of horror and inspiration. Alongside de Tavira, the cast includes Irene Azuela, Martín Altomaro, and Ana José Aldrete in key roles. The actor himself has called the film terrifying yet strangely uplifting. Meanwhile, de Tavira will next appear in *Amarte*, a 2024 release directed by Roberto Girault. In that film, he takes on a different challenge, playing a man with multiple personalities who believes he’s found true love.
Art Is Dark and Full of Horrors marks Narro Aguilar’s return with a sharp critique of artistic ambition. The Rotterdam premiere puts the spotlight on its unflinching portrayal of power struggles and moral compromises. De Tavira’s dual roles in this and Amarte suggest a busy year ahead for the actor.
