Amores Perros (2000)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Amores Perros (2000), directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, is a Mexican psychological drama film and the first installment in Iñárritu’s “Trilogy of Death.” The film intertwines three separate stories connected by a car accident in Mexico City, exploring themes of love, loss, and the brutality of life. The title translates to “Love’s a Bitch,” reflecting the complex and often harsh nature of the characters’ experiences.

The Story Unfolds

Story One: Octavio and Susana

The film begins with Octavio (Gael García Bernal) who is in love with his sister-in-law, Susana (Vanessa Bauche). Octavio despises Susana’s abusive husband, Ramiro (Marco Pérez), and dreams of running away with her. To make money, Octavio starts entering his dog, Cofi, in underground dog fights. Cofi becomes a champion, but as Octavio wins more money, the stakes and danger increase. The first story culminates in a dramatic car chase, leading to a crash that interconnects the three narratives.

Story Two: Daniel and Valeria

The second story focuses on Daniel (Álvaro Guerrero), a magazine editor who leaves his family to live with Valeria (Goya Toledo), a famous supermodel. Their happiness is short-lived as Valeria’s leg is severely injured in the car accident caused by Octavio. Confined to their apartment, Valeria’s life and career deteriorate, compounded by the distress of losing her dog, Richie, who becomes trapped under the floorboards.

The Climax and Resolution

Story Three: El Chivo and Maru

The third story introduces El Chivo (Emilio Echevarría), a former guerrilla turned hitman who lives on the streets with a pack of stray dogs. He witnesses the car accident involving Octavio and Valeria and rescues the injured dog, Cofi. El Chivo is hired to assassinate a man but finds himself conflicted when he discovers the target is the man’s brother. His internal struggle leads to a profound transformation, pushing him to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Maru (Lourdes Echevarría).

The Conclusion

Interconnected Fates

The film concludes with the characters’ fates intertwined by the accident. Octavio’s plans to escape with Susana fall apart, Valeria’s relationship with Daniel is strained beyond repair, and El Chivo finds redemption in trying to rebuild his life and relationship with his daughter. The ending emphasizes the unpredictability of life and the often harsh consequences of love and ambition.

Movie Ending

Amores Perros ends on a somber and reflective note, highlighting the intertwined fates of the characters affected by the car accident. The film underscores the themes of love, loss, and the unpredictable nature of life.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Amores Perros.

Type of Movie

Amores Perros is a psychological drama film that combines elements of crime, thriller, and dark realism, focusing on themes of love, betrayal, and the brutality of life.

Cast

• Gael García Bernal as Octavio
• Vanessa Bauche as Susana
• Álvaro Guerrero as Daniel
• Goya Toledo as Valeria
• Emilio Echevarría as El Chivo
• Jorge Salinas as Luis
• Marco Pérez as Ramiro

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Gustavo Santaolalla, whose music enhances the emotional and thematic depth of the narrative.

Filming Locations

Amores Perros was filmed in various locations across Mexico City, utilizing the urban landscape to reflect the gritty and realistic tone of the film.

Awards and Nominations

Amores Perros received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:

• Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film.
• Cannes Film Festival: Won the Critics’ Week Grand Prize and the Young Critics Award.
• BAFTA Awards: Won Best Film Not in the English Language.
• Ariel Awards: Won several awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• The film’s non-linear narrative structure and intertwining stories were inspired by the works of writers like William Faulkner and filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino.
• Amores Perros marked the feature film debut of Alejandro González Iñárritu and significantly boosted the careers of its cast, particularly Gael García Bernal.
• The use of real locations and non-professional actors in some roles adds to the film’s authenticity and rawness.

Inspirations and References

Amores Perros draws inspiration from real-life events and societal issues in Mexico City. The film reflects broader themes of love, betrayal, and the harsh realities of life in an urban environment. It is influenced by the storytelling techniques of multiple intertwined narratives, similar to films like Pulp Fiction.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Amores Perros closely follows Alejandro González Iñárritu’s vision. Some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights are available in special editions and DVD releases.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Octavio’s dog Cofi’s fights and the escalating violence.
• The car crash that ties the three stories together.
• Valeria’s descent into despair as she loses her career and struggles with her injury.
• El Chivo’s transformation and his decision to reconnect with his daughter.

Iconic Quotes

• “You and your plans. You always think things will go your way, but they don’t.” – Susana
• “We are what we are, and we do what we do. But what we do in life echoes in eternity.” – El Chivo

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film includes subtle visual and thematic references to the cyclical nature of violence and the interconnectedness of human lives.
• The title “Amores Perros” serves as a double entendre, reflecting both the literal presence of dogs and the figurative brutality of love.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was approximately $2.4 million, and it grossed over $20 million worldwide.
• Amores Perros is considered a landmark film in Mexican cinema and has influenced many filmmakers with its raw storytelling and complex characters.
• The film’s success paved the way for Alejandro González Iñárritu’s subsequent projects, including 21 Grams and Babel.

Why Watch?

Amores Perros offers a powerful and emotionally intense portrayal of interconnected lives affected by love, loss, and violence, featuring standout performances, particularly by Gael García Bernal, and masterful direction by Alejandro González Iñárritu. Its blend of gritty realism, complex storytelling, and deep emotional impact makes it a must-watch for fans of psychological dramas and international cinema.

Director’s Other Movies

Alejandro González Iñárritu also directed:

• 21 Grams (2003)
• Babel (2006)
• Biutiful (2010)
• Birdman (2014)
• The Revenant (2015)

Recommended Films for Fans

• City of God (2002)
• Pulp Fiction (1994)
• Traffic (2000)
• 21 Grams (2003)
• Crash (2004)