Ariel is a compelling story that needs to be told. Social justice against the backcloth of the allure of tango. Sibling relationships and the complexity of family ties. The role of multi-national corporations in the dirtier side of the government and dictatorship in Argentina. The juxtaposition of snowy cold Toronto and steamy Buenos Aires (and Montevideo, Uruguay ). The movie is captivating and engaging and the cinematography expansive. Allison has paid attention to all the details necessary to tie this story together. Very good job - a pandemic movie that defies the odds and comes out on top!
28 Reviews
Dance of Life
kms-6451014 February 2023
I really enjoyed this stylish film about family and tango. Director Alison Murray and her team have crafted a moving tale about the reverberations of Argentina's dirty war of the 70's and 80's for the generations that followed.
Canadians Davie and his sister Diana are both a mess, each in their own way. On their first trip to Buenos Aires, city of their birth, the pair discovers tango culture in all its sensual glory, and, eventually, some dark and shocking family secrets.
While the human action veers into melodrama on occasion, tango is such an apt metaphor for navigating the bumps and challenges of life, and the imperative to follow your heart and just keep dancing. Scenes set in the city's milongas (e.g. La Glorieta) are some of the best in the film, with social details, distinctive music and the swirling movement of tango all lovingly captured. I was also moved by the spotlight Murray shines on the Abuelas de la Plaza de Mayo and the work they are doing to find and help the lost children of Argentina's disappeared. Family, tango - such a rich mix in the hands of this director.
Canadians Davie and his sister Diana are both a mess, each in their own way. On their first trip to Buenos Aires, city of their birth, the pair discovers tango culture in all its sensual glory, and, eventually, some dark and shocking family secrets.
While the human action veers into melodrama on occasion, tango is such an apt metaphor for navigating the bumps and challenges of life, and the imperative to follow your heart and just keep dancing. Scenes set in the city's milongas (e.g. La Glorieta) are some of the best in the film, with social details, distinctive music and the swirling movement of tango all lovingly captured. I was also moved by the spotlight Murray shines on the Abuelas de la Plaza de Mayo and the work they are doing to find and help the lost children of Argentina's disappeared. Family, tango - such a rich mix in the hands of this director.
a moving portrayal
secretdancesociety8 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Check out Ariel for its gorgeous music, fantastic dancing, and moving story. The soundtrack to the film is rich in new and inventive versions of tango songs. There is even an all-female tango orchestra! With fabulous scenery of Buenos Aires and a glimpse into various facets of the tango scene, you may even be inspired to take up Argentine tango and travel to Buenos Aires. At its core, however, Ariel tells the story of one of the repercussions of Argentina's Dirty War. There are some incredibly poignant moments in this film that will want to make you dig deeper into the recent, harrowing history of Argentina. An important story enveloped by the magic of tango.
Masterful movement and full of family complexity
michaeljoseph-9761529 November 2022
Beautifully shot, compelling character story, with a backdrop of tantalizing Tango choreography.
From North America to Argentina, we follow the lives of siblings Davie and Diana, we learn how their family history come into question. Both brother and sister have their own views, wants they need to explore in Buenos Aries (Good Air), and we follow their individual journeys.
With a backdrop of Tango clubs as a source for revealing their true inner feelings, they explore their own identities and begin on an emotional rollercoaster ride. We learn of the 'disappeared' during Argentina's dictatorship of 1970-80s.
Alison Murray's direction, pulls out believable acting skills and superb detailed choreographic cinematography.
A visual/aural treat to watch/listen.
From North America to Argentina, we follow the lives of siblings Davie and Diana, we learn how their family history come into question. Both brother and sister have their own views, wants they need to explore in Buenos Aries (Good Air), and we follow their individual journeys.
With a backdrop of Tango clubs as a source for revealing their true inner feelings, they explore their own identities and begin on an emotional rollercoaster ride. We learn of the 'disappeared' during Argentina's dictatorship of 1970-80s.
Alison Murray's direction, pulls out believable acting skills and superb detailed choreographic cinematography.
A visual/aural treat to watch/listen.
Evocative exploration of Argentinian identity and tango
milesmile-8688729 November 2022
Loved this beautiful film exploring relationships - relationships within a family, between tango partners, and with a country. The consequences of belonging to a country with a passionate tango tradition and a violent political past are woven together creatively and we are drawn into both as two siblings explore their identities. The film and soundtrack enhanced and partnered each other like dancers, and together captured the intensity and tradition of milongas. The film shared a deep understanding and passion for tango with the viewers. If we weren't tango dancers before, we soon will be. The film also illustrates how families were impacted by the "disappeared", and if spreading awareness of that painful chapter of Argentinian history helps another family then that is a wonderful result.
Are you really who you think you are?
sunjicmario16 February 2023
A film that covers two significants events in Argentine culture and history, the military government that tried to transform society through terror and extermination and Tango, a unique musical style in the world that reflects passion and suffering in its melody as well as in its staging.
Director Alison tells us a story that could have been a real one, introducing us to Davie's life and the secrets of his family circle that does not convince him and in his search for answers all he finds is a new question and with the support of his sister Diana will end up finding a new version of himself.
Undoubtedly this drama leaves us much more than a simple story. A highly recommended film with an amazing cast.
Director Alison tells us a story that could have been a real one, introducing us to Davie's life and the secrets of his family circle that does not convince him and in his search for answers all he finds is a new question and with the support of his sister Diana will end up finding a new version of himself.
Undoubtedly this drama leaves us much more than a simple story. A highly recommended film with an amazing cast.
The complications of Family and the Joy of Dance
saramarsala25 November 2022
A moving film about the complications of family and the joy of dance. This film does not disappoint. The essence of the tango and spiritual and physical connection shared between the dancers in a 3 1/2 minute embrace were beautifully captured.
The tragic and heartbreaking story of Argentina's "disappeared " and the rippling consequences of this Era was emotional and honest. Weaving its way through the film, and tying both themes of dance and family, is the poignant and moving music of Tango with its undertones of longing, despair, hope and love.
A must watch, not only for tango enthusiasts, but for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of Argentina's "Dirty War" during the military dictatorship of the 1970's and early '80's.
The tragic and heartbreaking story of Argentina's "disappeared " and the rippling consequences of this Era was emotional and honest. Weaving its way through the film, and tying both themes of dance and family, is the poignant and moving music of Tango with its undertones of longing, despair, hope and love.
A must watch, not only for tango enthusiasts, but for anyone wanting to learn more about the history of Argentina's "Dirty War" during the military dictatorship of the 1970's and early '80's.
ARGENTINA, 1985 , ARGENTINA, 2014
NeavehStrand8 February 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Argentina 1985 is an important movie that tells the world about the bravery of the lawyers who stood up to the military junta of the dictatorship in Argentina. But as a Spanish language film it will be inaccessible to some. ARIEL, which could be titled Argentina 2014, is a more accessible film as it is told mainly in English. It also goes deeper connecting the dots ( SPOILER ALERT ) between US corporations and the bloody dictatorships that were created backed by US foreign policy under Operation Condor in the 1970s and early 1980s in several South American countries. But on top of all that, this film has a gripping emotional story , captivating and well told, beautiful cinematography, and incredible soundtrack as well as amazing dance and music performances woven into the story.
Wonderful
gallegogayta22 February 2023
I loved !! I totally recommend it!
A movie with a story that could easily be true, that leaves you thinking: Anyone born in that era could be Ariel?
How many Ariel discovered their roots?
How many Ariel will be able to discover theirs?
How many families will be able to find their Ariel?
The film plunges you into a great search story, related to one of the darkest decades of the 70s in Argentina, which continues today and will continue until all the Ariels and their families know their own story.
At the same time, it opens a door to the melodies of tango and its dance, inviting the spectator (whether they are knowledgeable or not) of this musical phenomenon.
I really liked how it is related and how it introduces us to that world of the first steps, showing us the universe of the Milongas with their singers, musicians, artists and making us enjoy some beautiful salon tangos.
In the latter I stop, because I really enjoyed those dances, for their choreography, their aesthetics, their approach and their costumes.
It is a great Argentine/Canadian co-production, with an excellent cast!
I highlight the great work and talent of its director not only for writing the story but also for the direction!
I was struck by the outcome of the story, which led me to be moved and to reflect on how many Ariels will there be in the world?
I live in Argentina and the film met my expectations and for those who do not know this country, it is an opportunity to discover part of its history with a beautiful look at tango in all its nuances!!!
Here's to Ariel the movie Health !!!
A movie with a story that could easily be true, that leaves you thinking: Anyone born in that era could be Ariel?
How many Ariel discovered their roots?
How many Ariel will be able to discover theirs?
How many families will be able to find their Ariel?
The film plunges you into a great search story, related to one of the darkest decades of the 70s in Argentina, which continues today and will continue until all the Ariels and their families know their own story.
At the same time, it opens a door to the melodies of tango and its dance, inviting the spectator (whether they are knowledgeable or not) of this musical phenomenon.
I really liked how it is related and how it introduces us to that world of the first steps, showing us the universe of the Milongas with their singers, musicians, artists and making us enjoy some beautiful salon tangos.
In the latter I stop, because I really enjoyed those dances, for their choreography, their aesthetics, their approach and their costumes.
It is a great Argentine/Canadian co-production, with an excellent cast!
I highlight the great work and talent of its director not only for writing the story but also for the direction!
I was struck by the outcome of the story, which led me to be moved and to reflect on how many Ariels will there be in the world?
I live in Argentina and the film met my expectations and for those who do not know this country, it is an opportunity to discover part of its history with a beautiful look at tango in all its nuances!!!
Here's to Ariel the movie Health !!!
Captivating and poignant
janinelrobinson26 November 2022
So many globally important and layered themes, so beautifully told. I was transfixed.
Without evever resorting to sentimentality, violence or traumatic and gratuitous explorations, the film beautifully and unflinchingly explores the complexity of family love against the context of historical state-sponsored violence.
Tango is almost a character, one that challenges us to confront and embody history, desire and risk, head on: and to beautifully connect on the deepest human levels.
All the while, the story remains a testament to healing power of enduring love, the power of connection and truth, and of course: tango.
Without evever resorting to sentimentality, violence or traumatic and gratuitous explorations, the film beautifully and unflinchingly explores the complexity of family love against the context of historical state-sponsored violence.
Tango is almost a character, one that challenges us to confront and embody history, desire and risk, head on: and to beautifully connect on the deepest human levels.
All the while, the story remains a testament to healing power of enduring love, the power of connection and truth, and of course: tango.
I absolutely loved it!
francescohiba25 January 2023
I absolutely loved this film. Ariel is a mix of Argentina's past and present within the context and backdrop of Argentine tango. Well acted, beautiful dancing, moving tango music under the exquisite directing of the talented Allison Murray, this film keeps the viewer engaged right from the very opening scene. It also raised all kinds of questions in my mind that were of a political, ethical and moral nature.
I laughed, I cried, I rejoiced, I questioned the actions of the characters, all of this while gaining a deeper understanding of Argentina of today and of the past.
Don't miss this wonderful flim!
I laughed, I cried, I rejoiced, I questioned the actions of the characters, all of this while gaining a deeper understanding of Argentina of today and of the past.
Don't miss this wonderful flim!
Excellent!
vanesaberenstein29 January 2023
What at first seems to be an intimate film about a brother and sister who return to the country where they were born, evolves to become a collective story, growing in intensity as it progresses. The script succeeds in overcoming the challenge of gradually and intelligently revealing the secrets of a family touched by the military dictatorship with civil society's complicity that violated human rights in Argentina between 1976 and 1983, and narrating the struggle of Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo in the search for their grandchildren as well as for truth and justice. Alison Murray deals with a delicate subject with evident knowledge and clarity which will be welcomed by those who are not aware of Argentina's darkest historical years.
One of the greatest achievements of the film is the skill with which Murray weaves storytelling with tango dance. In addition, the outstanding cast, the incredible soundtrack and beautifully shot dance scenes in the milongas of Buenos Aires contribute to making Ariel a captivating film.
One of the greatest achievements of the film is the skill with which Murray weaves storytelling with tango dance. In addition, the outstanding cast, the incredible soundtrack and beautifully shot dance scenes in the milongas of Buenos Aires contribute to making Ariel a captivating film.
The Dance of Life
dlyon20 January 2023
ARIEL is a unique film, combining the elements of dirty politics, family secrets and sensual dance. Great attention is paid to details, such as the clothing and attitude of the silver foxes in the tango clubs and the intimate & sometimes combative relationship between the young adult brother and sister at the centre of the story. The music, dance and architecture of Argentina are lovingly presented. As the brother and sister peel back the layers of the family mystery, the audience is riveted until the inevitable resolution. Notwithstanding the ugly historical political reality, the heart of the characters ultimately shines through.
Family always finds a way
knxcpdgv13 June 2023
Ariel is a beautiful, moving film about family, the history of a country, and the power of dance. The film is beautifully shot and features great performances. I highly recommend it, specially being from Argentina myself.
Here are some specific things I liked about the movie:
The cinematography and camera work was stunning.
The performances by the cast were all great.
The dance scenes were incredibly well-choreographed.
Overall, I really enjoyed Ariel. It's a beautiful, moving, and well-made film. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves family dramas, dance movies, or movies about Argentina.
Here are some specific things I liked about the movie:
The cinematography and camera work was stunning.
The performances by the cast were all great.
The dance scenes were incredibly well-choreographed.
Overall, I really enjoyed Ariel. It's a beautiful, moving, and well-made film. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves family dramas, dance movies, or movies about Argentina.
A powerful story with beautiful music and dance scenes.
schombergacademyofmusic28 November 2022
I loved this movie. The music content is so beautiful as is the way it was presented. I would buy the soundtrack without hesitation. The dancing and choreography is just magical and again filmed in a way that made me really appreciate the art of tango dance in a whole new way. The dance and music felt like the perfect vehicle to use to explore the complexity of politics and culture as they intersect with the characters emotional journeys .
The visual representation of the different geographic locations and cultures was perfect. I cold feel the cold of a Canadian winter and the heat of a late night stroll in Argentina. The complicated emotions of family that drive the story are close enough to the surface story that I could feel each characters perspective but they never overwhelmed the narrative.
I love this film.
The visual representation of the different geographic locations and cultures was perfect. I cold feel the cold of a Canadian winter and the heat of a late night stroll in Argentina. The complicated emotions of family that drive the story are close enough to the surface story that I could feel each characters perspective but they never overwhelmed the narrative.
I love this film.
Ariel is a wonderful film
colleenrushnet24 January 2023
Ariel was a joy to watch. From the moment the film begins you are captivated. The story is heart-wrenching and shows the loving yet complicated relationships between families.
Alison Murray is a visionary, that uses dance in the film to explore identity and discovery of one's self on a multitude of levels. Dance connects the characters in the film to one another, as well as connects them to themselves and where they come from
The cast is superb! They bring life to the film, and bring the audience on the journey with them.
This movie will leave you thinking about it long after you've watched it. I strongly recommend seeing this film.
Alison Murray is a visionary, that uses dance in the film to explore identity and discovery of one's self on a multitude of levels. Dance connects the characters in the film to one another, as well as connects them to themselves and where they come from
The cast is superb! They bring life to the film, and bring the audience on the journey with them.
This movie will leave you thinking about it long after you've watched it. I strongly recommend seeing this film.
Ariel is Phenomenal
lorympiana20 January 2023
I absolutely enjoyed this film. ARIEL is moving and captivating. Alison has an amazing cast that really went in depth with their characters. The score was beautiful. I really appreciate the Direction Alison Murray took. The reason why she chose to tell this story was the cherry on top! The scenery was beautiful. I absolutely loved all the scenes with Tango dancing. I am seriously considering taking a trip to Argentina just so I can go Tango dancing with a pro. I highly recommend that people go see ARIEL as it discusses an important topic! Can't wait to see what's next for this film. Congratulations!
Rich and Authentic experience
jeffwellix27 November 2022
Feels like a rich and authentic cinema experience all the way through including the dancing and music.
Pacing is just right, keeping us wanting to see what happens next, but with enough pauses to absorb. And in each pause, a different evocative shot making me think "wow" again.
Dialogue is sparing, with just enough words to convey what's needed. Often a look passing between people is enough. Characters ring true, feeling full and natural. You seriously care what happens to people. Their attitudes shift and adjust through the revelations they come across. And just like real life, things don't go in storybook patterns -- you really don't know what's coming next.
Pacing is just right, keeping us wanting to see what happens next, but with enough pauses to absorb. And in each pause, a different evocative shot making me think "wow" again.
Dialogue is sparing, with just enough words to convey what's needed. Often a look passing between people is enough. Characters ring true, feeling full and natural. You seriously care what happens to people. Their attitudes shift and adjust through the revelations they come across. And just like real life, things don't go in storybook patterns -- you really don't know what's coming next.
Stunning and poignant!
jenniferklleung26 November 2022
This film had me captivated by the beautiful tango, riveting family dynamics and stunning cinematography. It's draws out the complex historical elements of Argentina's sordid past brought into the current context plus adds authentic tango music, with full orchestras, set in the real milongas of Buenos Aires. It even delves into the underground culture of milonga dynamics. From the old men watching ladies enter at the milonga entrance to the concept of followers needing to fully let go of control. It's all there!
I am thoroughly impressed and would recommend it to the tango community, those who love dance and anyone who cares about politics. This film brings it all together in a meaningful, unforgettable experience. It is not one to miss!
I am thoroughly impressed and would recommend it to the tango community, those who love dance and anyone who cares about politics. This film brings it all together in a meaningful, unforgettable experience. It is not one to miss!
Highly recommended
aniellaber16 February 2023
I loved this movie!!!!
I was caught immediately in the story. Beautiful scenes with a lot of tango, real tango.
The characters where brilliant in their performance, everyone of them.
Is highly recommended everything about this film, from de music, the scenography, the actors, the film in self, and of course the story, so touching. The story opens a debate on an important topic, still valid.
I can't wait to see it in the cinema in a big screen!!!!!
Alison the director stands out chapturing the emotion, the dance and the passion of tango!
And of course I loved Eleonora Wexler!! I'm a fan!! :)
Congratulations!!!
I was caught immediately in the story. Beautiful scenes with a lot of tango, real tango.
The characters where brilliant in their performance, everyone of them.
Is highly recommended everything about this film, from de music, the scenography, the actors, the film in self, and of course the story, so touching. The story opens a debate on an important topic, still valid.
I can't wait to see it in the cinema in a big screen!!!!!
Alison the director stands out chapturing the emotion, the dance and the passion of tango!
And of course I loved Eleonora Wexler!! I'm a fan!! :)
Congratulations!!!
Beautiful
tamarafaithberger24 January 2023
Ariel is a film about tango, family, history and awful things being hidden and uncovered. The history of the Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo is really well portrayed. Great performances by the main actors, especially Raphael Grosz-Harvey and Eleonora Wexler. A beautiful score and gorgeous, arial shots of Buenos Aires. The film is skillfully and sensitively directed by Alison Murray. The complex indictment of characters and corporations for their collaboration in Argentina's military dictatorship between 1976-1983 is a huge part of this film's accomplishment. I hope this film travels far and is seen worldwide.
A history lesson packaged in so much tango !
bpqpbcsxs19 September 2023
Finally available in Canada on AppleTV. Alison Murray, the movie director, writer and the producer, takes you to hot Buenos Aires. The story of two siblings from Toronto traveling to Buenos to visit the city which their parents are from. The family left Argentina in the 70's and never went back, never talked about it! But Didi and Dave, now in their 30's, want to know more. However there is a price for the truth. Was it worth it ? Heck , yes!!! Emotional history lesson wrapped up in so much beautiful tango music! Fun to watch when one recognizes the streets one walked and the milongas one danced at.
A beautiful tango with Argentina
deerflyfilms5 March 2023
A wonderful film that pairs an intoxicating setting (and clearly the director's love of tango), with an engaging narrative that takes us on an eye-opening journey to Argentina. The actors playing the brother and sister are convincing in their complex roles, and their flaws and contradictions make them interesting to watch. The story's historical context intertwines the present and the past with a satisfying ending at its climax, and the main characters' internal (and external) resolution feels earned. Highly recommended to audiences interested in issues concerning identity, art/dance, history, politics, and romance. A viewing pleasure!
beautifully filmed, heartwarming
basementindie18 March 2023
This is a unique slice of culture within a heartwarming story. There is a lightheartedness to the tone, which is a fun film to watch with a good feeling -- wish they made more movies like this (I'm speaking to you Disney!). It's remarkable that the director was able to put together the authentic world.
The acting is excellent -- a joy to watch.
Directing excellence in the film, as well, with unexpected framing, lighting is beautiful. The fact that she was able to get all those background actors for a low-budget indie is amazing. The dancing hall has as much production value as large budget productions. Brava!
The acting is excellent -- a joy to watch.
Directing excellence in the film, as well, with unexpected framing, lighting is beautiful. The fact that she was able to get all those background actors for a low-budget indie is amazing. The dancing hall has as much production value as large budget productions. Brava!
I loved every frame of this film!
stamosgeorge31 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Brilliantly written and directed, Ariel by Alison Murray is an amazing intersection of dance, intercultural politics, and cinematic talent. Going far beyond stereotypical portrayals of Argentinian tango, Ariel's beauty, style, and rhythm draw you into a compelling journey. Courageously moving through sorrow toward reconciliation and joy, Murray delivers the complex nuances of how the appropriation of children impacts their lives, with sensitivity to this painful part of Argentinian and Canadian history. Ariel is informative and aesthetically pleasing, with a superb cast and standout performances by Eleonora Wexler and Raphael Grosz-Harvey. A thoughtful, heartwarming film that charmed me into spaces that opened my heart and mind. A must-see!
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