Daniel Hendler’s A Loose End transforms a police story, stripping it of thriller conventions to craft a quiet tale of rebirth. The film follows Santiago, who flees from Argentina to Uruguay after exposing his colleagues’ corruption, as he attempts to build a new life. Neither a complete escape nor a full exile, Santiago’s journey—shaped by the people he meets, small-town routines, an unexpected romance, and his struggle to break free from the past—feels warm and deeply human.
Sergio Prina’s performance is one of the film’s strongest assets. His portrayal of Santiago’s silence, indecision, and introspection connects with the audience, balanced by moments of humor that create a natural flow. Gustavo Biazzi’s cinematography turns empty roads, sprawling fields, and ordinary settings into a visual poem of Santiago’s solitude. Small details of Uruguay’s everyday life—a shared mate at a bus stop, the accented banter of townsfolk—lend the film an authentic, intimate atmosphere.
The film’s pacing, especially in the first half, is deliberately slow, allowing viewers to connect with Santiago and breathe alongside him. Rather than relying on high-stakes chases or dramatic outbursts, A Loose End builds through the accumulation of small moments, making the emotional payoff in the finale all the more powerful. In the scenes where Santiago confronts his past, the film maintains its balance of drama and subtle humor, delivering a satisfying resolution.
Premiering at Venice Days, the film stands as a strong example of the minimalist, character-driven narratives emerging in recent Latin American cinema. Themes of migration, belonging, and moral courage elevate Santiago’s personal story into a universal tale of starting anew. Critics describe it as “a measuredly humorous and culturally rich work that rewards patient viewers.”
Hendler’s film reminds us that escape is not just about leaving things behind but also about learning to belong somewhere new. With its slow tempo but lasting impact, A Loose End is one of 2025’s most compelling cinematic experiences for those seeking a thoughtful, enduring story.
