Argentina 1985

Argentina 1985 is a 2022 Argentine documentary-drama film directed by Santiago Mitre, which delves into one of the most pivotal moments in Argentina's history. During the 1980s, the country was plagued by a repressive military dictatorship, which had been responsible for numerous human rights atrocities, including enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture. The story begins in 1983, shortly after the fall of the Argentine military dictatorship, which had been in power since 1976. Although a new democratic government had been installed, the military leaders who were responsible for the atrocities during their rule were still in positions of power and influence. It was in this context that a group of young and courageous lawyers, led by the charismatic and determined Isabel Basaglia, decided to take on the system and bring the perpetrators of these crimes to justice. The filmmakers focus on the story of Julio Strassera, a brilliant and dogged lawyer who was tasked with leading a team of lawyers in a judicial inquiry into the alleged torture and murder of over 300 people during Argentina's Dirty War. Strassera and his team, which included his trusted co-counsel, Diego Luciani, spent countless hours gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a case against the military leaders who were responsible for the atrocities. The lawyers faced numerous obstacles and challenges in their pursuit of justice. The military establishment, which still wielded significant power and influence, was determined to block their efforts and silence their voices. They subjected the lawyers to harassment, intimidation, and threats, which were designed to deter them from pursuing their case. However, Strassera and his team remained undeterred, and their determination to bring the perpetrators to justice drove them to continue fighting even in the face of overwhelming adversity. One of the central characters in the story is the then- Attorney General of the Argentine Nation, Julio César Strassera, whose son Julio, the lead character, is portrayed. His real-life son, also named Julio, narrates many of his memories of his father. The son's recollections and interactions with his father, both in and out of court, provide depth and insight into the events described in the film. The lawyers' pursuit of justice culminated in a historic trial, which was watched by the nation and the world. The trial, known as the "Trial of the Juntas," was a landmark event in the history of Argentina and a testament to the courage and determination of the lawyers who had brought it about. During the trial, the lawyers presented evidence and witnesses that revealed the systematic and widespread nature of the military's atrocities, which had been concealed and covered up for years. The trial was a grueling and emotionally charged experience for everyone involved. The lawyers, who had invested so much of themselves in the case, were forced to relive the trauma and suffering of the victims and their families. However, they also knew that their actions could have a profound impact on the nation and its future. In the end, the trial delivered a verdict that was long overdue: the military leaders who had been responsible for the atrocities were found guilty, and many of them were sentenced to prison terms. The verdict was a significant moment in Argentina's history, marking a major step towards justice and accountability for the crimes that had been committed during the Dirty War. However, the legacy of the trial extends far beyond the courtroom. It marked a significant turning point in Argentina's transition to democracy and paved the way for the nation's efforts to confront its past and rebuild its society. The film pays tribute to the courage and determination of the lawyers and their families, who risked everything to bring justice to the victims of the military dictatorship. The documentary-drama style of the film provides a powerful and thought-provoking portrayal of this pivotal moment in Argentine history. By focusing on the personal stories and struggles of the lawyers, the filmmakers humanize the story and bring it to life in a way that is both moving and thought-provoking. The film also highlights the ongoing importance of fighting for justice and accountability, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. Overall, Argentina 1985 is a powerful and moving film that pays tribute to the courage and determination of the lawyers and their families who fought for justice and accountability in the face of overwhelming adversity. It is a testament to the enduring power of the rule of law and the importance of fighting for human rights and dignity, even in the darkest of times.