“The Red Hangar”, interview with director Juan Pablo Sallato

“The Red Hangar”: A Powerful Reflection on Power and Obedience by director Juan Pablo Sallato

Unveiling the historical depths of Chile’s military coup through gripping storytelling, “The Red Hangar” is a poignant film that resonates with contemporary themes. As a film that confronts the past to shed light on present issues, it offers a compelling look into the chaos and moral ambiguity experienced during Chile’s turbulent September 1973.

Why “The Red Hangar” Is Essential Viewing

“The Red Hangar” stands out as an essential film for its unflinching portrayal of a dark chapter in history. Set during the military coup in Santiago, the film explores the transformation of a military academy into a detention and torture center, highlighting the disturbing obedience demanded by authoritarian regimes. Through its intense narrative, Juan Pablo Sallato‘s film invites viewers to reflect on how power structures impact individual morality and societal obedience. Its vivid depiction of those charged with enforcing oppressive orders makes it a vital cinematic commentary on historical and ongoing struggles with tyranny. The film’s focus on character and system dynamics underscores its relevance in today’s world. By portraying a protagonist caught within the machinery of oppression, the film explores internal conflicts faced by individuals living under authoritarian rule.

The Artistic and Thematic Choices Behind “The Red Hangar”

The choice to shoot “The Red Hangar” in black and white emphasizes its ties to history while enhancing the film’s emotional depth. The director, Juan Pablo Sallato, explains that this decision mirrors the chiaroscuro of moral gray areas faced by characters, symbolizing shadows within human nature and the ambiguous nature of obedience and resistance. The film’s visual style, combined with its tense storytelling , captures the urgency of the characters’ moral dilemmas. “The Red Hangar “ masterfully uses its historical setting to dialogue with present-day conversations about power, making the film a powerful reminder of the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths from the past.

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