End of the Century (Fin de siglo, 2019) is a tender and introspective Argentine film written and directed by Lucio Castro. Blurring the boundaries of time, memory, and fantasy, it explores the intricacies of human connection, love, and the lingering impact of relationships. Set primarily in Barcelona, this quiet and reflective queer romance captures the nuances of fleeting encounters and the possibilities of alternative paths in life.
The film opens with Ocho (Juan Barberini), a 30-something Argentine poet, visiting Barcelona on vacation. He spends his days wandering the city, taking in the sights, and enjoying the solitude of travel. While gazing at the cityscape from his apartment, Ocho notices Javi (Ramรณn Pujol), a local man, and the two share a brief but charged moment of eye contact. Later, they meet again on the beach, and their chemistry leads to a passionate one-night stand.
What initially seems like a simple hookup soon takes on greater depth as the two men begin to talk. During their conversations, Javi reveals that theyโve met beforeโ20 years earlier, in Barcelona. The revelation unlocks a series of flashbacks (or imagined memories), showing how the two initially connected as younger men, when Javi was in a relationship with a woman and Ocho was not yet out of the closet.
The film fluidly moves between past and present, sometimes blending the two, as it examines the course of their lives and the choices that shaped them. The narrative suggests that their reconnection may be more than a coincidence, raising questions about fate, missed opportunities, and parallel lives. It ends ambiguously, inviting the audience to ponder the reality of their relationship and the nature of their bond.
End of the Century was widely praised for its thoughtful storytelling, understated performances, and emotional depth. Critics highlighted its unique narrative structure and the way it handles universal themes through a queer lens. While its slow pace and ambiguity may not appeal to all viewers, many found its exploration of love, memory, and fate profoundly moving.
End of the Century is a poignant and meditative exploration of love, memory, and the choices that define us. With its delicate storytelling, richly textured performances, and evocative setting, it invites viewers to reflect on the nature of human connection and the possibilities of alternate lives. Itโs a film that lingers in the mind, much like the relationships it so beautifully portrays.