Ripstein likes to put his characters in difficult situations. Especially when it comes to past events that haunt them in the present. Every Ripstein´s films are full of really claustrophobic places and situations. In this case the main character cannot escape his past nor his nemesis. So, it all becomes claustrophobic in a greek tragedy way. EXCELLENT!!!!
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erick_castaway31 December 2001
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FilmCriticLalitRao1 October 2014Every human being deserves a chance to progress in life despite having had a shady past. This is the reason why many religions state that one should hate the sin and not the sinner. It is on this belief that Arturo Ripstein, Mexican cinema's greatest director has directed one of his important films "Cadena Perpetua". It can be translated as 'life imprisonment' but it is more than a simple life imprisonment as this film's protagonist Tarzan, a former thief finds himself at difficult crossroads when some corrupt policemen make their way in his life in order to disturb it. A reformed person might feel himself under the influence of being perpetually tied to chains if somebody forces him to abandon the life of goodness for a life of evil. It is often said that Ripstein's films are difficult for Mexican people to watch as he truthfully shows what is wrong with the losers who have given a bad name to Mexico. In "Cadena Perpetua", Ripstein directs his anger at corrupt police forces who seem to have prevailed in Mexico. Lastly, 'Cadena Perpetua' is an interesting film to watch as it does not propose easy solutions to problems faced by a reformed person. It is also important especially in the manner it has researched the past of a reformed criminal.