Synopsis
The 33 is a 2015 biographical disaster drama film tells the captivating story of the Copiapó mining accident that took place in Chile in 2010. A catastrophic collapse occurred within the San José copper-gold mine which resulted in 33 miners getting trapped 700 meters underground for 69 days. This film showcases how both the miners and their families endured emotional pain during this internationally publicized rescue operation.
The film plot starts with the routine drill of the miners, safe in the knowledge that a portion of the mountain above them is stable. Unbeknownst to them, the mountain’s structure is precarious and of little integrity. Suddenly, a colossal collapse fully encases them, cutting them off from all access to the surface. The only option is a small emergency shelter filled with food and water rations for several days.
Attempts to communicate with the miners are difficult, and initially there is no way to know what has happened to them. Their families wait at the surface demanding information and answers from the mining company as well as the government. Tension builds for the Chilean government to act and a public search and rescue operation is launched. Several drilling rigs are brought in, but the task of locating the miners is extraordinarily difficult.
Ultimately, rescuers detect tapping sounds and send a probe and the note attached reads: “We are well in the refuge, the 33.” This moment marks an important milestone in the rescue effort and captures the attention of Chile as well as the world. At this point, the objective transforms to sustaining the miners’ health and device a plan to save them.
The psychological strain and rations of food presents a challenge to the men. They become increasingly hungry and arguments double. Order is eventually established with each man embracing a role as a leader, motivator, technician, and even a spiritual guide. Over time, they aid each other through storytelling and praying.
While the miners are trapped, their families set up tents outside the mine as they await “Camp Hope”. The Chilean government brings in foreign engineers and drilling experts which quickly turn into working under Plans A, B, and C.
It takes more than two months of careful coordination and drilling for a shaft to be created which Fénix can be sent down. With the help of technology, the miners are finally brought to the surface in a dramatic rescue that is viewed by millions worldwide. This enduring rescue marks the successful conclusion of one of the longest recorded survival episodes beneath ground level in history.
The film’s conclude acknowledges that after the initially joyous occasion of the miners being rescued came the complex psychological issues such as chronic trauma and fame that they had to learn to deal with in the long run. Emerging out of the ordeal, these thirty-three concluded with collective fortitude as well as tremendous resolve infused by their rescuers and families.
Cast and Characters
Antonio Banderas as Mario Sepúlveda
One of the primary group spokespersons, Mario, famed as “Super Mario”, supports and motivates group morale. He dispenses monologues with humor that encourages and motivates others while challenging them to do better.
Rodrigo Santoro as Laurence Golborne
Leads as the Minister of Mining for Chile which serves as a position that carries a lot of relevance in terms of dealing with a myriad of political and logistical challenges.
Juliette Binoche as María Segovia
Portrays a version of a real family member which represents the entire female demographic of mothers, wives and sisters that held the media and government accountable to maintain focus on the rescue mission.
Lou Diamond Phillips as Luis “Don Lucho” Urzúa
The shift supervisor underground. Urzúa is rational and methodical and strives to maintain order within the group. He assists in the management of their day-to-day activities as well as ration distribution.
Other key miners are portrayed by Jacob Vargas, Juan Pablo Raba, Marco Trevino, Tenoch Huerta, and Oscar Nuñez, each contributing a distinct attitude and flavor to the cramped space they must inhabit for over two months.
As engineers and rescue advisors working tirelessly above ground, James Brolin and Gabriel Byrne have both been cast in these roles.
Direction and Production
The 33 was directed by Patricia Riggen, who shot it in both Chile and Colombia. In order to enhance the authenticity of the story, real mines were used, as the narrow, dimly lit spaces deep underground heightened the suffocating claustrophobia experienced by both the characters and the audience. The film’s score juxtaposes hope and despair, and the combination of natural lighting with handheld camera work emphasizes this contrast.
To enhance the accuracy of the portrayal, the production team collaborated with some of the miners and their families. Careful attention was given to the depiction of real-world conditions, while visual effects were kept to a minimum. In filming the scenes above ground, a wider palette was used to symbolize openness and freedom, while the scenes shot underground used muted darker tones to evoke confinement and despair.
Themes and Analysis
Survival and Brotherhood
The ties that the thirty-three men have is the most impactful part of the film. They are able to stay united despite the stress, fear, and conflict within the group. Leadership is not bestowed on a single person for the entire duration of the project. Each miner possesses skills and traits which can be seen as strengths and weaknesses. Their survival depends on the entire crew working together instead of on a singular person.
Faith and Hope
Keeping a positive morale is important in a situation where uncertainty is rampant. Religion, rituals, and prayer serve as coping mechanisms. The film depicts shared devotion as well as personal beliefs that sustain every man differently.
Family and Sacrifice
Buried alive miners’ families serve as a symbol of emotional strength. Their public outcry, and unwavering resolve in the face of denial aids in building media and political pressure. The film emphasizes how sheer love paired with relentless determination helps overcome bureaucratic stagnation.
Technology and International Cooperation
It includes psychological consultants from NASA, Canadian drilling rigs, and international mining experts. It serves as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when humanity works together for a common goal.
Class and Injustice
The film touches on the systemic neglect of mine workers. Their inadequate working conditions, lack of safety measures, and minimal government regulation led to the disaster. While the movie emphasizes survival and hope, social inequalities that contributed to the disaster do not go ignored.
Reception
The film was warmly received by audiences for its emotional sincerity and the inspirational tone. Critics had mixed reviews—some thought the film leaned too heavily on melodrama while others noted its authentic humanity. The cast received praise for their performances, especially Antonio Banderas who was noted for adding depth to the myriad of characters.
In Chile, the film was of particular importance because it rekindled conversations about mining safety, workers’ rights, and the identity of the nation. It was applauded for its respectful approach and avoidance of sensationalizing the trauma of the miners and their families.
While The 33 was not a major box office hit, the film achieved its purpose of depicting a real-life miracle through heartfelt performances and a message of endurance and unity.
Conclusion
In “The 33,” we witness extreme human endurance’s resilience, as the story explores the miners’ emotional struggles alongside their families and the global teams involved in the rescue operation. The film captures the essence of humanity’s struggle for survival, endless hope, and the strength forged through unity, even in the bleakest environments.
The film serves the dual role of a historical account while also functioning as a work of art that encapsulates the metaphorical and literal transcendence of light over darkness. One can analyze the film as a source of inspiration, or as a look into the human psyche when faced with immense pressure; either way, “The 33” provides a profound narrative of the unwavering spirit of empathy and resolute fortitude.
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