Home / Arts and Entertainment / Argentine Director of 'The Official Story' Passes Away
Argentine Director of 'The Official Story' Passes Away
27 Apr
Summary
- Director Luis Puenzo, who won Argentina its first Oscar, has died.
- His film addressed the "dirty war" where thousands disappeared.
- The film uncovered stolen children given to junta sympathizers.
Luis Puenzo, the acclaimed Argentine director, passed away on Tuesday in Buenos Aires at the age of 80. He is best remembered for "The Official Story," a 1985 film that secured Argentina its inaugural Oscar for best foreign language film in 1986. This powerful movie, set during Argentina's brutal military dictatorship (1976-1983), explored the "dirty war" which saw thousands of perceived opponents of the regime disappear. Puenzo's work brought to light the unsettling reality of children being stolen from disappeared parents and rehomed with junta-affiliated families. Originally intending a clandestine production, Puenzo was able to film openly after the regime's fall, ensuring his film resonated with a society emerging from years of censorship and fear. The film's critical success was matched by its profound societal impact, sparking discussions on human rights and the nation's dark past. Puenzo also directed "Old Gringo" (1989) and later served as president of Argentina's National Institute of Film and Audiovisual Arts (INCAA).
