The Heist of the Century by Ariel Winograd
Summary: The Heist of the Century is a thrilling Argentine crime-comedy film directed by Ariel Winograd. Based on a true story, the film follows a group of inexperienced criminals who successfully execute an audacious bank heist in 2006, stealing millions of dollars from the Banco Río branch in Acassuso, Buenos Aires.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Ariel Winograd
- Writer(s): Alex Zito, Fernando Araujo, Ariel Winograd
- Key Actors: Guillermo Francella as Fernando Araujo, Diego Peretti as Luis Mario Vitette Sellanes, Pablo Rago as Ricardo “El Gordo” Martín Araujo, Luis Luque as Mario Vitette Sellanes, Rafael Ferro as Sebastián “El Ingeniero” García Bolster
- Music Director: Iván Wyszogrod
- Director of Photography: Félix Monti
- Producers: Axel Kuschevatzky, Matías Levinson, Juan Pablo García, Juan Pablo Buscarini
Plot:
The Heist of the Century revolves around the meticulous planning and execution of the infamous Banco Río heist. The mastermind behind the operation, Fernando Araujo, recruits a team of misfit criminals, including Luis Mario Vitette Sellanes, Ricardo “El Gordo” Martín Araujo, Mario Vitette Sellanes, and Sebastián “El Ingeniero” García Bolster.
The group spends months studying the bank’s security measures, devising an ingenious plan to bypass the alarm system and disable the surveillance cameras. Disguised as a group of painters, they infiltrate the bank on a fateful day, taking the employees and customers hostage.
As the heist unfolds, tensions rise among the criminals, and unexpected obstacles threaten to derail their meticulously crafted plan. The police, led by the determined detective Miguel Sileo, surround the bank, creating a tense standoff. Meanwhile, the hostages form unexpected bonds with their captors, blurring the lines between victim and perpetrator.
Throughout the film, The Heist of the Century explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the blurred boundaries between right and wrong. It delves into the psychology of the criminals, highlighting their motivations and the consequences of their actions. The film also examines the impact of media coverage on public perception and the power dynamics within the hostage situation.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release, The Heist of the Century received critical acclaim for its gripping storytelling, well-developed characters, and the seamless blend of comedy and suspense. The film was praised for its ability to humanize the criminals and create empathy for their plight. It was also lauded for its accurate portrayal of the real-life events and the attention to detail in recreating the heist.
The Heist of the Century went on to receive several awards and nominations, including Best Film at the Argentine Academy Awards. It has since become a cult classic in Argentine cinema, known for its memorable characters and quotable dialogue. The film’s success has inspired other heist films and cemented Ariel Winograd’s reputation as a talented director.
Recommendation:
The Heist of the Century is a must-watch for fans of crime films and thrilling heist stories. With its engaging plot, well-rounded characters, and expertly crafted suspense, the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The comedic elements add a unique flavor to the genre, making it an enjoyable and entertaining experience.
Memorable Quote:
“Sometimes, the best way to rob a bank is to own one.” – Fernando Araujo
