Los Olvidados (EOTWS)

End Of The Week Shorts #14 extract: Los Olvidados (1950)

Los Olvidados (a.k.a The Young And The Damned) is considered a Latin American masterpiece, understandably so, and is a devastating social tragedy. It is a parable about the cyclical nature of poverty, one that is attached to all people in a hierarchical society who do not assume both responsibility and patience. But, in constructing such a poignant tale, Buñuel never really uses direct social commentary, rather, he documents a narrative that is supposed to be viewed as truth (though it is obviously construed based on true events) which we cannot help but invest in and ruminate upon. 

The blend and balance of realism, surrealism, symbolism, character and plot in this narrative is then perfect, leaving this film a true mark of a master. If you haven't seen this film, certainly give it a go.