Currently ranked among Netflix’s Top 10 series, The Eternaut is a prime example of the high caliber of Argentina’s production capabilities. It’s also another milestone solidifying Ricardo Darín’s status as one of the country’s greatest actors. And for those captivated by his talent, there are many more things to watch from Darín.
Netflix
White Elephant (Elefante Blanco): directed by Pablo Trapero, this movie is a powerful Argentine drama that follows two Catholic priests, Julio (played by Ricardo Darín) and Luciano (played by Jérémie Renier), who work in a Buenos Aires slum to offer help to the impoverished. Amidst a backdrop of violence, corruption, and social inequality, the priests try to navigate the challenges of their mission while being caught in a complex moral and ethical web. Darín’s portrayal of Julio is both compelling and deeply emotional, capturing his internal conflict as he struggles with his faith and his role within a system that seems to offer no solutions.
Prime Video
Son of the Bride (El Hijo de la Novia): Rafael Belvedere, a stressed-out restaurant owner in Buenos Aires, experiences a minor heart attack that triggers a personal crisis. He reevaluates his life, including his relationships with his girlfriend, ex-wife, daughter, and aging parents. His father’s desire to fulfill his long-time dream of marrying his Alzheimer’s-afflicted wife in a church further complicates Rafael’s journey towards self-discovery and reconciliation. Ricardo Darín shines in the role of Rafael, capturing his vulnerability and frustration.
Argentina, 1985: The film depicts the true story of the 1985 Trial of the Juntas, where prosecutors Julio Strassera and Luis Moreno Ocampo led the prosecution of the military dictators responsible for the crimes against humanity committed during Argentina’s last military dictatorship. The film follows the legal team as they gather evidence and face immense pressure and threats in their pursuit of justice. Ricardo Darín delivers a compelling performance as Julio Strassera. The movie was nominated for an Academy Award for Best International Feature Film.
Apple TV
Nine Queens (9 Reinas): Two con artists, Marcos and Juan, team up to pull off a series of increasingly complex scams in Buenos Aires. Their ultimate target is a set of rare stamps called “The Nine Queens.” As they navigate a world of deceit and double-crosses, their loyalty is tested, and it becomes increasingly difficult to discern who is conning whom. Ricardo Darín’s performance as Marcos is the cornerstone of the film. He embodies the cunning and world-weariness of a man who has made a living through his wits. Darín portrays Marcos with a captivating blend of charm and cynicism, intelligence and vulnerability. He effortlessly conveys the character’s street smarts and his ability to read people, making him a believable and compelling con artist.
Wild Tales (Relatos Salvajes): a darkly comedic Argentine anthology film directed by Damián Szifron, composed of six standalone stories that explore the extremes of human behavior when people are pushed to their breaking points. From road rage and class warfare to betrayal and revenge, each tale blends absurdity with social commentary. In one of the most memorable segments, acclaimed actor Ricardo Darín plays an explosives expert whose frustration with bureaucratic injustice spirals into a brilliant and explosive act of rebellion. Darín brings a perfect mix of simmering rage, irony, and humanity to the role, anchoring the segment with emotional depth and a sharp critique of modern urban life. Following the immense popularity and impact of this particular segment, Ricardo Darín was widely and affectionately nicknamed “Bombita Darín” by the public and media alike.