"Thrilling Drama 'The Jockey': Star-Studded Performances by Nahuel Pérez Biscayart and Úrsula Corberó"
In theaters on May 30th, the Spanish-Argentine co-production "El Jockey" offers audiences a hypnotic and dreamlike experience. Directed by Luis Ortega, best known for "El Ángel" and "Narcos," this film stars Nahuel Pérez Biscayart and Ursula Corberó, notable for their roles in "120 pulsaciones por minuto" and "Money Heist," respectively.
"El Jockey" has earned significant recognition, including the Horizon Award for Best Film at the San Sebastián Festival, a nomination for Best Ibero-American Film at the Goyas, and nine nominations at the Platino Awards, with Daniel Fanego taking home the prize for Best Supporting Actor. The movie represents Argentina at the Oscars.
The narrative follows Remo Manfredini (Pérez Biscayart), a legendary Argentinian jockey whose self-destructive behavior threatens his relationship with his pregnant girlfriend, Abril (Corberó). On the most crucial day of his life, Remo suffers a severe accident that leaves him uncertain between life and death. He vanishes from the hospital and roams the streets of Buenos Aires, leaving spectators wondering if he lives or dies. Free from his identity, Remo embarks on a psychological and existential journey of self-discovery, eluding his past pursuers.
Luis Ortega confessed that the movie's theme isn't easily defined, but it resonates deeply with his heart and senses. The director began crafting the story while following a character on the streets of Buenos Aires and attending horse races, which intertwined with the uncertainty he faced becoming a father.
Ortega explains that the protagonist's status remains undefined: "I don't really know what the movie is about... There are vital signs that could partially answer that question, but I don't know if there's a clear line between being alive and being dead." This ambiguity adds to the film's surrealistic charm and intrigue.
Humor plays a significant role in the film, providing respite from the drama and offering a way to endure life's pains and absurdities. "Drama is so ingrained in our daily lives that humor is our salvation," says Ortega.
Nahuel Pérez Biscayart delivers an impactful performance as the jockey who wanders the streets pursued by the racing mafia. As Remo navigates his inner turmoil and self-discovery, he transitions through stages of dissolution, recomposition, and rebirth.
Ursula Corberó brings her character Abril to life, describing her as "a free and very sensitive woman, but also strong." Abril serves as a grounding force for Remo in his transformative journey.
Ortega's ability to create captivating atmospheres and Clark Gable's influence on his directorial style have left a lasting impression on Pérez Biscayart: "[Ortega] is a great creator of climates, of atmospheres... He has that strong ability to summon forces that belong to other worlds."
Audiences can expect an existential and not-so-serious film with a complex protagonist on the edge, pushing the boundaries of tradition and emotional authenticity. "I like those characters on the edge because the others are boring," concludes Ortega. "What I want is to surprise myself and for making the film to be a stimulating experience for me."
This Spanish-Argentine co-production, "El Jockey", provides a unique blend of entertainment, offering audiences a hypnotic and dreamlike experience beyond mere movies-and-tv. Its lead character, the legendary Argentinian jockey Remo Manfredini, portrayed by Nahuel Pérez Biscayart, embarks on an average lifestyle transformation as he navigates through self-discovery, fashion-and-beauty evolving alongside his inner psyche.
