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Felipe Gálvez Haberle’s debut feature, a gripping western drama-thriller, was highly acclaimed at Cannes and selected as Chile’s official submission for the Academy Award for Best International Feature. The film delves into the dark history of Tierra del Fuego, exposing the exploitation and colonization by European commercial interests and the political elite in Santiago in the early 20th century. It sheds light on the brutal genocide of Indigenous peoples at the hands of wealthy businessman José Menéndez, who used hired mercenaries such as ex-British soldier Alexander MacLennan (aka “the red pig”) to carry out his atrocities.
Alfredo Castro, a Chilean actor known for his versatile roles, portrays the unemotional character of Menéndez, while Mark Stanley embodies the aggressive MacLennan, still proudly donning his red military tunic and insisting on being called “Lieutenant”. A disturbing incident hints at MacLennan’s increasing propensity for violence, which may have been influenced by the brutal treatment he received. The story also introduces an American “Indian-hunter” named Bill (played by Benjamin Westfall) who joins MacLennan on their bloody expedition into the treacherous southern wilderness. Accompanying them is Segundo (Camilo Arancibia), a “mestizo” with indigenous ancestry, who is mistrusted by Bill due to his fear that Segundo may betray them.
A frightening meeting takes place with another mercenary from Britain, portrayed with a sinister presence by Sam Spruell. This character seems to share the same profession as MacLennan, but has become desensitized to violence and isolation to an even greater extent. The Settlers is truly disturbing, with its unsettlingly desolate scenes captured by Simone D’Arcangelo and a frenzied, chaotic score by Harry Allouche. It serves as a reminder of the violent and oppressive history embedded in Chile’s foundation as a nation, which may have served as a lesson for future political violence.
The situation becomes even more troubling when we consider the rewriting of history and manipulation of legacies. This involves Indigenous individuals being pressured to take photos in Western attire, erasing their unique identity and giving the impression of willingly assimilating into white culture. It is a brutal and unrefined example of the use of cruelty and dominance.
Source: theguardian.com
