THE ANGEL
Based on a true story, a baby-faced rebel-without-a-cause cruises Argentina capturing the hearts of idolizing teens despite the growing number of murders in his wake.
With his golden locks, pouty lips, and seductive charm, 17-year-old Carlitos (Lorenzo Ferro) looks like a typical heartthrob adorning a teen’s locker, yet in 1971, his most-wanted mug is instead plastered on the walls of every single Argentinian police station. Self-proclaimed “spy for God,” the dreamy antihero at the center of Luis Ortega’s THE ANGEL is a born thief who gets his kicks breaking into luxurious homes to not only make off with expensive jewelry, but also bust a move or two. When Carlitos takes to the road with his classmate and target of his affection, Ramón (Chino Darín), the two discover a lust for life and violence that sends the country into hysteria. Supported by a groovy soundtrack and dazzling retro sheen, co-writer/director Ortega playfully adapts the alarming tale of the real life “Death Angel” Carlos Robledo Puch, who is still in jail for his crimes today as Argentina’s longest serving prisoner. This highlight from Cannes Un Certain Regard plumbs the depths of what motivated a depraved teen to engage in his own Bonnie & Clyde-killing spree and how he became such a galvanizing force in Argentina.
CAST: Chino Darín, Daniel Fanego, Lorenzo Ferro, Malena Villa
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