Rotting in the Sun
Rotting in the Sun

Movie spotlight

Rotting in the Sun

2023
Movie
111 min
Spanish

A filmmaker facing an existential crisis goes on a vacation to a Mexican gay nudist beach, where he meets a social media celebrity who convinces him to collaborate with him on his new TV show. But one disappears and another embarks on a wild journey through Mexico City to find him.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes80%
Metacritic71/100
Google Users85%
Director: Sebastián SilvaGenres: Comedy, Drama, Mystery

Plot Summary

A satirical meta-comedy, the film follows gay Mexican filmmaker Sebastián Silva as he journeys to the beach town of Valparaíso, Chile, seeking inspiration. After a falling out with his friend Jordan, Sebastián discovers Jordan has died under bizarre circumstances. Determined to finish the film they were supposed to make together, Sebastián decides to play Jordan's role himself, leading to a surreal and darkly humorous investigation into Jordan's life and death.

Critical Reception

Rotting in the Sun received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its bold, experimental style, dark humor, and meta-commentary on filmmaking and identity. Some found its narrative structure chaotic, but many appreciated its unique voice and willingness to push boundaries. The performances, particularly from Silva himself, were frequently highlighted.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unique, genre-bending approach and dark, satirical humor.

  • Acknowledged for its meta-commentary on filmmaking and queer identity.

  • Noted as a challenging but rewarding watch for those who appreciate experimental cinema.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's originality and dark comedy. Many enjoyed its provocative themes and unconventional storytelling, though some found it intentionally confusing or too niche.

Fun Fact

The film blurs the lines between fiction and reality, with director Sebastián Silva casting himself and basing much of the narrative on his own experiences and observations.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Most folks here just use their own names, so it's easy to follow the characterisations as dysfunctional, ketamine-loving, "Sebastián" (Silva) encounters the drowning "influencer" Jordan Firstman in trouble just off a nudist beach. Rescued a...

Brent Marchant

Brent Marchant

When an overwrought, angst-ridden, drug addicted filmmaker (Sebastián Silva playing a fictional version of himself) unexpectedly meets a wacky, unhinged comedian/social media influencer (Jordan Firstman playing a fictional version of himsel...

Video Reviews

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