El bonaerense

i was pleasantly surprised by this movie at a recent film festival screening. most of it is deadpan, jarmusch-like slice-of-life comedy, but moments of senseless violence pop up unexpectedly.

it's the story of a small-time hood who's sent by his well-connected uncle to join the buenos aires police, which is depicted as, pretty much, a small time crime family with uniforms.

the offbeat story is matched by the offbeat story-telling, which keeps you guessing every step of the way. the cinematography and music are also top notch, which contributes to the film's tangible, sweat-soaked atmosphere.

i'm not sure what it all adds up to, but an intelligent and well-made movie which never bores is no small feat.